Vladimir Zelensky invites Patriarch Bartholomew to Ukraine

Vladimir Zelensky with his wife at Phanar. Photo: Presidential Press Service

President of Ukraine Vladimir Zelensky and his wife visited Phanar and met with His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the President’s press service reports.

During his visit to Turkey, Vladimir Zelensky and his wife thanked the head of Phanar for "unconditional personal support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, our independence, as well as for all the support that the Patriarch provides to Ukraine."

The President also invited Patriarch Bartholomew to Ukraine: “I am grateful for everything you have done and are doing for Ukraine. Such support on the path to peace is important for us. Ukraine is warm and hospitable. We will all be very happy about your visit; it will be a very important visit for Ukraine."

The parties agreed on the approximate date of the visit. The most acceptable date was the 30th anniversary of the celebration of Ukraine's independence.

Vladimir Zelensky expects that by the time the head of Phanar arrives in Ukraine, “we will have the opportunity to move forward on the path to peace. And most importantly – about the prisoners: in the Donbass, in the Crimea and in Russia – I really want them to return home."

Earlier, the UOJ reported that Vladimir Zelensky visited the St. George church in Phanar, where a prayer service was served in his honor.

Read also

In Ukraine, Trump’s 'spiritual advisor' reassured of religious freedom

Pastor Mark Burns stated that Ukraine, despite the war, is a "beacon of religious freedom."

Lavra brethren congratulate Metropolitan Pavel on 31 years as abbot

The monks of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra have expressed hope that they will soon be able to pray again with their abbot.

Amsterdam: Intrusion into Lavra Caves – a return to Soviet-era persecution

International lawyer Robert Amsterdam has condemned the actions of Ukraine’s Ministry of Culture regarding the inspection of holy relics in the Caves of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, calling it a violation of religious freedom.

Over 20 EU states condemn Hungary for ban on LGBT propaganda among children

“This restricts the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression,” diplomats state in a joint declaration.

His Beatitude officiates consecration of Bishop of Rakhiv

At the Church of St. Agapitus in the Lavra, the Primate of the UOC ordained a vicar for the Khust Eparchy.

Met Victor: It is painful to see Lavra's relics turned into test subjects

According to the bishop, there is particular concern over how members of the scientific commission will handle the holy relics.