Patr. Bartholomew to Mark Ukraine’s Independence Day with Divine Liturgy

ISTANBUL — Patr. Bartholomew will preside at a Divine Liturgy in the Ukrainian language on Aug. 24, marking the 35th anniversary of the official declaration of Ukraine’s independence.

The Ecumenical Patriarch will visit the Church of St. Nicholas of Cibali at approximately 10 a.m. and preside from the throne during the Divine Liturgy. Members of Istanbul’s Ukrainian-speaking community are expected to attend the service and join in prayer on Ukraine’s Independence Day.

The commemoration will also include a memorial service for the victims of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Patr. Bartholomew will officiate at the service following the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, offering prayers for the repose of those who have died during the conflict.

A reception will follow the liturgical and memorial observances. The gathering will bring together members of the Ukrainian community in Istanbul as they commemorate both their nation’s independence and those who have lost their lives in the war.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the Greek PM asked Patr. Bartholomew to officiate at his son’s wedding.