On September 26, 2024, on the feast day of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, Metropolitan Symeon of Vinnytsia and Bar celebrated the Divine Liturgy in the church of Mykhailivka village, Vinnytsia district, which is consecrated in honor of the Apostle John the Theologian.
His Eminence was concelebrated by the Rector of the church, Archpriest Anatoliy Kuznetsov, and clergy of the Vinnytsia-Bar Diocese. During the service, prayers were offered for Ukraine's victory and a just peace.
At the end of the service and the procession around the church, Metropolitan Symeon delivered an archpastoral speech and congratulated the parishioners on the Patronal Feast.
With the blessing of the Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, His Beatitude Metropolitan Epifaniy of Kyiv and All Ukraine, Metropolitan Symeon presented the medal "For Sacrifice and Love for Ukraine" to the parish priest, Archpriest Anatoliy Kuznetsov. This award recognized the priest's ten-year activity as a volunteer who organizes the collection of aid for the defenders of Ukraine and delivers it directly to the front line of our country's defense.
The medal "For Sacrifice and Love for Ukraine" was also awarded to Valeriy Koroviy, chairman of the GO "We Are Vinnychany", for his extensive activities in support of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as residents of Vinnytsia region and internally displaced persons from eastern Ukraine, promotion of culture and spirituality, and support of religious communities of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine in Vinnytsia region and, in particular, the parish of Mykhailivka village, Vinnytsia district.
Metropolitan Symeon also presented certificates of appreciation from the Vinnytsia-Bar Diocese to active parishioners of the church and Archpriest Anatoliy's associates in volunteer activities.
The celebration ended with the proclamation of "Many Years" for the Ukrainian Church, state, army and people of Ukraine.
Press service of the Diocese of Vinnytsia and Bar of the UOC (OCU)
