On July 14, 2023, a stele in memory of those killed in a russian missile attack on the city was unveiled in Vinnytsia. The stele was erected on Victory Square, where civilians were killed a year ago by russian missile attack. 29 white birds flying into the sky symbolize the souls of the innocent victims, including three children. Before the stele was installed, the relatives of the victims planted 29 sakura trees around the memorial site.
The stele unveiling ceremony began at around 11 am. It was at this time a year ago that enemy missiles fell on the peaceful city. During the ceremony, the memorial stele was blessed by Metropolitan Symeon of Vinnytsia and Bar.
The prayer read by the Archpastor included the following words: "Bless, O Lord, and sanctify this monument, which was built and erected in honor and memory of the innocent people - children, women and men - who died on this site from a missile strike inflicted by the cruel and insidious russian aggressor. Receive the souls of the innocently killed in the holy and blessed heavenly dwellings, show them Your great mercy, and raise their bodies to live in Your glory... Strengthen our faith and hope in Your mercy and grant the people of our city and all the people of Ukraine Your protection and cover."
After the blessing, flowers were laid at the memorial stele. Relatives of the victims were the first to lay flowers. The laying of flowers was attended by regional and city officials and members of the public. Metropolitan Symeon also laid a bouquet of white roses at the memorial stele.
On the same day, in the morning, Metropolitan Symeon and the clergy performed a funeral prayer in the Transfiguration Cathedral for the victims of the russian missile attack.
Press Service of the Vinnytsia-Bar Diocese of the UOC (OCU)
