Lazybones. Blogger. Monk. Bartender. Khortytsia. Saint. Dad. Quick. More…
Each of us has our own list of names. They are rarely spoken aloud. But even whispered, they sound louder than the loudest slogans.
Behind each one is a small story spanning a lifetime. Behind each one are not just tears and prayers, but dozens of warm, sometimes unobvious, yet so important stories.
I’ve often heard those who are only finding themselves in faith ask: why did Jesus accept such a sacrifice? Why didn’t the Lord save His Son and allowed Him to be crucified?
Did Christ Himself have doubts as He walked to Golgotha? Didn’t He wish to drop His cross, step aside, abandon His guard, and let humanity bear the responsibility for its actions and decisions?
In the thirteenth year of war, I think each of us has weighed the depth of our own sacrifice and weariness more than a dozen times. Each has pondered: are their personal actions worth such a cost? When the world has gone mad and those who should be leaders trade values and lives.
And it seems that in absolute darkness, time stands still, demanding answers. Then, in the sudden silence after a harsh battle, the birds’ singing suddenly emerges. Or, like a glitch in the system, a spring flower blooms amid a shady grove. Over the ruins, the sun rises and proclaims the victory of life.
Then amid tears, love revives. Among weakness, supports grow. And stern warriors momentarily transform into boys with cheerful eyes and excitement in their voices. This means God speaks to you in His language.
The path we walk is incredibly difficult. For some, unfortunately, it ended forever, while others have just begun their journey. But all these paths converge here — not just in prayer and faith, but in our common struggle for the victory of life over death.
Because life is stronger. Because love never ends. Lego and Ira, Maestro, Kondor, Leshyi, Kapral, Boim, thank you for sharing your stories.
Ukraine will endure. And we with it.
Christ is Risen!
* * *
The thirteenth Easter during the Russo-Ukrainian war. And already the fifth during the full-scale invasion.
Traditionally, during the All-Night Vigil at the St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, Marina and I, along with hundreds of Kievans, prayed. We asked the Lord for protection for our warriors, well-being for Ukrainian families, and peace on our land.
In these moments, the intertwining of faith and the reality of war is especially felt: when every prayer is not just a word but an inner support that helps us endure. We hold onto it just as we hold onto each other.
Faith gives us hope for the Bright Resurrection of the entire Ukraine. May the Lord hear our prayers!
Christ is Risen!
