The tragedy in Lugansk brings people closer to God, – Bishop Mitrofan

The tragic events that are now taking place on the territory of the Lugansk region have turned people to God and the Church, said Metropolitan Mitrofan (Yurchuk) of Lugansk and Alchevsk, answering the question of a UOJ correspondent "How has military confrontation changed the congregation in the region?"

"When the city was heavily shelled, when people were deprived of light, water and food, rectors of our churches in every way helped people in this difficult time, – said the bishop. – The priests provided not only spiritual but also financial support. People found food and – literally – shelter in churches because many churches performed the function of shelters during the attacks. During the shelling, people were hiding in basements of churches, and many survived because of this. All of these events served the reason for people to change their attitude to God and find their place in the Church. They saw the Church play a very important role in their lives. Faith and attending prayer helped people survive in these circumstances."

Metropolitan Mitrofan of Lugansk and Alchevsk stressed that, despite the hostilities, people hurried to church services.
"Looking at the Peter and Paul Cathedral, as well as visiting other parishes, I can see our flock grow in number. Not only the elderly but also young people have started going to church, which is particularly pleasing. People turned to the Church and God and realized that it plays an important role in their life."