Moderator to attend commemoration service to mark Ukraine war anniversary

The Moderator of the General Assembly is attending a special service to mark the second anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Rt Rev Sally Foster-Fulton will lay a wreath at the National War Memorial at Edinburgh Castle tomorrow to commemorate the Ukrainians who have died in the fighting.

The bi-lingual commemoration service, which starts at 11am and will be attended by political and religious leaders as well as Ukrainian nationals and others, has been organised by the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain.

It will be led by Rev Dr Karen Katrina Campbell, a Church of Scotland minister and National Chaplain of the Royal British Legion Scotland, and Father Vasyl Kren, Ukrainian Catholic Priest in Scotland.

Speaking ahead of the event, Mrs Foster-Fulton said: "Tomorrow, marks the second anniversary of the catastrophic invasion of Ukraine by Russia on 24 February 2022.

"In so doing, we recall the shock of the news that, once more, countries were at war in Europe and the peace that has largely prevailed in recent generations was now shattered.

"Lives have been torn apart due to unprovoked Russian aggression and we continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and all innocent people who suffer because of this aggression.

"We pledge to support them and pray for them until peace prevails.

"The tragic and unnecessary loss of so many lives and the destruction wrought in the villages, towns and cities of Ukraine has left a deep wound in the hearts of the people, which we know will take generations to heal.

Hospitality and solidarity

"Over the last two years, the Church, and the people of Scotland more widely, has had the opportunity to welcome many Ukrainians to this country who have come to escape the destruction in their homeland.

"The hospitality offered – such as people opening up their homes - is testimony to the desire to build community across the borders that sometimes divide us and establish a place that offers security and a home.

"Congregations and presbyteries across Scotland have collected and distributed substantial donations to charities working in the region to support people affected by the war, including partner churches.

"We continue to stand with Ukrainians in this country who have been displaced and long to return home and with the people of Ukraine who long for peace to reign in their homeland.

"Our prayers for healing and for peace are with them on this anniversary.

"On behalf of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, I extend our very best wishes to all of those who continue to be affected."

The congregation at Sherbrooke Mosspark Parish Church in Glasgow is one of many that have supported displaced Ukrainian nationals over the last two years.

Parish minister Rev Adam Dillon said: "A lot of our Ukrainian friends have settled across the city and further afield during the last year or so.

"We are always delighted to welcome them back and keep in regular contact with many of them.

"On Sunday, we will be commemorating Founders Day for the Scouts and alongside their colours we will fly the flag of Ukraine as we have done ever since the war started two years ago.

"The people of Ukraine will be held in our prayers during a time of silent tribute and remembrance."