Historic UOC church in Sumy Region damaged by shelling
Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Yunakivka village. Photo: Sumy Eparchy
The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a UOC church in the village of Yunakivka in Sumy District, was damaged by Russian shelling. According to the press service of the Sumy Eparchy, the church is a national heritage monument and one of the most renowned architectural landmarks of the Sumy region.
The chief architect of Sumy Oblast, Volodymyr Bykov, reported on the extent of the destruction and shared photos of the damage alongside historical images of the church.
Built in 1806, the Nativity Church is an example of early classicism and a symbol of Sumy Oblast. It is prominently featured on the coat of arms of Sumy District as a representation of the region's historical heritage and spiritual depth. In the past, the Church of the Nativity was the spiritual center of Yunakivka.
"On behalf of the Sumy Eparchy, we express our heartfelt condolences to the Orthodox community of the village and call for prayers for peace and the preservation of our holy sites," stated the diocesan press service.
As the UOJ previously reported, in Sumy, the UOC is praying for the repose of those who lost their lives during another attack by Russia.
Read also
Orthodox Bioethics Conference Makes Key Statements on Euthanasia
The 3rd International Bioethics Conference of the Ecumenical Patriarchate recently concluded in Crete.
ROCOR Parish in Wales Fundraising to Secure a Church
The parish is hoping to establish a permanent Orthodox church in Cardiff — a home of prayer, worship, and renewal for Wales, where the ancient faith once flourished.
UOC Priest: St. Gabriel of Georgia Healed Ukrainian Soldier
A serviceman - who had been unable to speak for nearly a year due to a concussion - began to speak again after an appearance of the Georgian saint.
2025 St. Herman Youth Conference to Be Held in NY This December
Annual gathering to bring together Orthodox youth from across North America for fellowship, worship, and spiritual growth.
HCHC Community Holds All-Night Vigil Honoring Philoptochos Society and Its Patron Saints
Special prayers offered for members of the National Board and all Philoptochos chapters in gratitude for their decades of support.
Georgian Church Resumes Construction After Miracle
The foundation of a church was blessed at Georgia's Oncology Center — construction resumes on the Church of Ss. Panteleimon the Healer and John the Baptist.