«Faith in Victory Motivates Us to Unity»: Rally in Support of Ukraine Held in Sydney

On February 24, on the third anniversary of the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation, Fr. Lubomyr Yavorskyy and Bishop Mykola Cardinal Bychok, Bishop of the Melbourne Eparchy of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, went to Sydney.

First, the guests had the opportunity to meet with the local Ukrainian community. Father Lubomyr shared the current concerns and hopes of the Ukrainian people, who continue their desperate struggle for their own independence and identity, spoke about the Ukrainians’ vision of ending this war, and also about their gratitude to all people of good will who do not remain indifferent and show comprehensive support, particularly on the Australian continent.

Then Bishop Mykola, together with Father Lubomyr, joined a large rally organized by the Ukrainian community of the city on St. Mary’s Cathedral Square. The rally was attended not only by the Ukrainian diaspora, but also by representatives of the diplomatic corps of various countries that support Ukraine, local Australian authorities, including the Governor of New South Wales—the state in which the city is located.

«This event in support of Ukraine on the third anniversary of the full-scale invasion united us in a common aspiration and dreams,» emphasized Fr. Lubomyr Yavorskyy.»

Bishop Mykola Cardinal Bychok led a joint prayer for a just peace for the Ukrainian people, delivered a word of support, and gave a blessing to all those present.

«Ukraine stands because it feels the support of people around the world who remain faithful to truth and humanity, helping us alleviate our suffering. Ukraine fights because it lives with the hope we see in the eyes of young defenders. Being a fragile virtue, this hope can withstand and lead us through the greatest hardships and hellish trials. Ukraine prays because it believes in victory and a just peace that surpasses earthly expectations, because the Lord God is our defender,» emphasized Bishop Mykola Cardinal Bychok in his speech.

He then added that everyone is called to play their part to help Ukraine achieve victory and a just peace. «Your presence here today will be felt in Ukraine; it will strengthen Ukraine to maintain faith in God and in itself. It will show Ukraine that, despite the talk and lies that are now spreading, truth and decency will prevail,» he said.

After the prayers for victory and a just peace and the «Our Father» prayer, the Cardinal remembered the fallen defenders. «We remember those who died in this war, the brave defenders of Ukraine, the innocent victims of evil aggression. May their memory be eternal.»

Sharing his experiences, Father Lubomyr noted: «I had a wonderful opportunity to talk with Ukrainians and participants of this event, to tell them about Ukraine and the challenges facing our people today. At the same time, I expressed gratitude to everyone for their closeness and concern for those who suffer as a result of the war.»

It is worth noting that the Ukrainian community in Australia actively participates in various initiatives to support the Ukrainian people. Ukrainians and caring volunteers organize actions and rallies to proclaim the truth about the Russian war, raise funds to support charitable initiatives for Ukrainians, including those implemented by the Patriarchal Foundation «Mudra Sprava,» and create constant prayer in parish centers. Through the mediation of the Melbourne Eparchy of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, more than $450,000 was sent to the «Mudra Sprava» foundation for its needs.

Press Service of the Patriarchal Foundation «Mudra Sprava»