On December 18, 2024, Metropolitan Symeon of Vinnytsia and Bar took part in an event dedicated to the first anniversary of the Patient's School, which was opened a year ago at the Podil Regional Oncology Center. Within the framework of the School, psychologists, lawyers, social workers, rehabilitation therapists and representatives of the clergy worked with cancer patients and their relatives free of charge for a year to help them learn to live with the disease.
In his welcoming remarks, Metropolitan Symeon thanked the organizers of the School for their noble work and emphasized the importance of spiritual support for people facing difficult life challenges. The Archpastor emphasized:
"Illness is a time of trial, but it is also a time to strengthen faith and hope. The Lord is always with each of us, and His love gives us the strength to move forward even in the most difficult moments."
Together with Metropolitan Symeon, the event was attended by a medical chaplain, clergyman of the Vinnytsia-Bar Diocese, Archpriest Igor Mironov, who in his report, as a medical chaplain of the oncology hospital, shared his experience of serving patients and medical staff.
The priest emphasized that the main task of chaplaincy is to help people feel God's presence, to give hope and support, even when the situation seems hopeless.
During the event, Metropolitan Symeon blessed the patients, doctors, and organizers of the School, urging everyone not to lose faith and always turn to God for help.
His Eminence assured that the Vinnytsia-Bar Diocese will continue to support important initiatives aimed at helping those in need of spiritual support, particularly in hospitals.
Press service of the Diocese of Vinnytsia and Bar of the UOC (OCU)
