At the end of August, the second session of the Forum of Military Chaplains of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine took place in Kyiv, on the grounds of the St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery. The event brought together representatives of the chaplaincy service from various branches of the Defense Forces, including the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard, Special Operations Forces, and other components.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Features of the Forum
The forum was organized by the Synodal Administration of Military Clergy of the OCU and the Military Chaplaincy Service of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine. Over 200 chaplains participated in the event, who provide spiritual support to military personnel and their families on a daily basis.
The Importance of Chaplaincy in the Military
Metropolitan Epiphanius, addressing the participants, emphasized the key role of chaplains in strengthening the morale of military personnel and fostering spiritual unity. He highlighted that chaplains help Ukrainian defenders feel supported in the challenging conditions of confronting the enemy.
“Chaplains create a connection between God and the warrior. This connection helps them realize that they are not alone in the fight against the enemy,” emphasized Epiphanius.
The moderator of the forum was Colonel of the Chaplaincy Service Konstantin Kholodov, who heads the Military Chaplaincy Service of the GUR. He noted that in difficult times for the country, the strength of the military’s spirit and the support of chaplains determine the stability and well-being of the state. The main task of chaplains is to provide round-the-clock support to defenders and constant prayer for Ukraine’s victory.
The forum became an important platform for exchanging experiences and discussing the prospects for further development of military chaplaincy in Ukraine. Chaplaincy mission servants remain a support for the military, helping to overcome psychological and spiritual challenges during the defense of the country.