At the end of 2023, Metropolitan Symeon of Vinnytsia and Bar consecrated a Chapel built on the territory of a military unit in Vinnytsia region.
The Chapel was built on the initiative of the command and military personnel of the unit with the assistance of benefactors, including entrepreneurs, government officials, and the staff of an educational institution. The family of a fallen soldier of the unit also contributed to the common cause in memory of their son, who gave his life for the Motherland. Most of the work on the construction of the shrine was done by the soldiers themselves, who suggested naming the chapel in honor of the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos.
Metropolitan Symeon performed the rite of consecration of the Chapel together with military chaplains and representatives of the clergy of the Vinnytsia-Bar Diocese. After the consecration, His Eminence said prayers for the Ukrainian soldiers who courageously defend the independence and freedom of Ukraine, as well as for the repose of the defenders who died fighting the russian occupiers.
After the prayer service, Metropolitan Symeon congratulated the commanders, officers, sergeants and soldiers on the festive event in the life of their military unit. The Archpastor wished that every day in the newly built chapel the soldiers' prayers and requests for God's help and protection of the Holy Virgin, who is the Heavenly Patroness of this small church, would be heard. Metropolitan Symeon called on the soldiers to receive God's blessing and wished them a speedy victory for Ukraine and a just peace.
At the end of the celebration, the initiators of the construction, benefactors and soldiers who contributed to the construction and decoration of the chapel and the surrounding area were awarded.
Press service of the Diocese of Vinnytsia and Bar of the UOC (OCU)
