On August 23, 2023, a solemn ceremony of swearing in an assistant military chaplain took place on the territory of the Transfiguration Cathedral in Vinnytsia. In the presence of commanders, officers, and military chaplains, Ivan Perepelytsia, who had previously served as a subdeacon in the cathedral, took the oath of allegiance to Ukraine. In the future, the chaplain's assistant will serve in one of the military units.
The swearing-in ceremony took place after a solemn ceremony of raising the national flag of Ukraine, which was blessed by Metropolitan Symeon of Vinnytsia and Bar. After congratulating the new soldier from his commanders, Metropolitan Symeon also congratulated Ivan Perepelytsia and wished him God's help in his new field of service to God and the people of Ukraine.
The Archpastor also read a prayer that included the following requests to the Lord: "Give him an unceasing memory of faithfulness to the Motherland. Settle in his heart love and sincere affection for our Ukrainian people, whom he promised to serve faithfully. Grant him, O Lord Jesus Christ, to never forget Your example of sacrificial service to his neighbors. May this example always enlighten him so that in the spirit of Your teaching he may behave toward everyone, and especially toward his comrades."
Press service of the Diocese of Vinnytsia and Bar of the UOC (OCU)
