Ecumenical Patriarchate congratulates Ukrainians on Christmas

The congratulation was published by the press service of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

"Unfortunately, this year the good news of Christmas is heard along with the din of war and the clatter of weapons in your homeland, which is experiencing the terrible consequences of a provocative and unjust invasion. This war, provoked by Russia’s aggression in February last year, is the worst European geopolitical and humanitarian crisis since the end of World War II, which negatively affects the environment and society around the world," he said.

In particular, Patriarch Bartholomew noted that "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9); Lord promotes the idea of righteousness and love even to our enemies."

He also added that any distortion of the Gospel message for political purposes and attempts to find a theological reason for war and violence in order to justify the unjustifiable is not only a caricature of the Gospel, but above all "blasphemy against the God of mercy and the Prince of peace."

"The credibility of religions today depends on their attitude to the protection of human freedom and dignity and their contribution to peace," said Patriarch Bartholomew.

He also called to celebrate Christmas "with spiritual joy" despite the circumstances.

"We believe that only solidarity with the Ukrainian people can overcome evil and darkness. We hope, when time allows, to visit your unconquered homeland again, finding then all Orthodox Christians of Ukraine united in one flourishing Church! We wish you all long and blessed years!" he added.