The following is a prayer offered by Metropolitan Antony and Archbishop Daniel of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA in a statement of the Council of Bishops to parishioners. “May God hear our loving petition and soften the hearts and minds of all, within and without Ukraine during these dangerous times,” the bishops said.

Lord our God, great and almighty, we your sinful children turn to you with humility in our hearts and bow our heads low before you. We beseech your loving kindness and abundant blessings upon the nation – the people – of Ukraine during these days of great danger to their safety and well-being.

Our brothers and sisters, Lord, are once again threatened by aggressors who see them only as obstacles blocking the path to the complete domination of the precious land and resources of the country of Ukraine. Strengthen the people as they face this great danger, turning to you in the immeasurably deep faith, trust and love they have placed in you all their lives. Send your heavenly legions, O Lord, commanded by the patron of Kyiv, Archangel Michael, to crush the desires of the aggressor whose desire is to eradicate our people.

Grant unity of mind, heart and soul, O Lord, to all leaders in public service with those they serve. Unite them all into one, great Christian family, so that together, as brothers and sisters, they may glorify your majestic name – God in the holy trinity – Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto the ages of ages. Amen!