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UKRAINIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH OF THE USA

CONSISTORY OFFICE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

PRESS RELEASE

Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA Offers Prayers Following the Terrorist Attack at Istanbul Ataturk International Airport

Following the most horrific, deplorable, and senseless acts of violence and terror at Istanbul’s International Airport, the Council of Bishops of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA expresses its solidarity with the people of Turkey and those of other nations, whose citizens traveled through the one of the busiest airports in the world, and extends heartfelt prayers to the families of those who were killed or injured as a result of the attack. Our hearts and minds are prayerfully also with the emergency responders, law enforcement agents, and security officers.

Following his safe return to the United States of America from Crete (Greece) via Istanbul International Airport earlier today, and upon learning about the tragic events in Istanbul from Bishop Daniel, His Eminence Metropolitan Antony stated, “Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA stands alongside all people of faith and good will, and supports the efforts of religious leaders – especially His All Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew – to forge mutual understanding, respect and reconciliation among all people… During this time of tragedy, as we experience pain, sorrow, and indignation, we must remain inseparably connected to our faith, especially to the salvific events of Cross and Resurrection, the ultimate source of comfort, solace and peace.”

The Council of Bishops of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA, speaking on behalf of the entire plentitude of the Church condemns the blind violence that causes so much suffering and implores God for the gift of peace. Sadly, this murderous attack is only the latest in a series of attacks aimed at killing of innocent civilians. Such attacks must reinforce the determination of the worldwide community to work closely with each other to counter the scourge of terrorism and support all those across the planet who are working to promote peace and reconciliation.

We pray that the Lord’s mercy will be upon us during this time of sadness. We urge the clergy and faithful of our UOC of the USA and people of good will throughout the world to turn their hearts and souls to Christ the Savior, Who consoles and guides us through suffering with mercy and tenderness. The healing power of Christ goes beyond our physical wounds but touches every level of our humanity: physical, emotional, social, spiritual. The eternal call of Christ to us all is to remain fervent in our protection of life and human dignity and to pray unceasingly for peace in our world.

With prayers in Christ, the Merciful Savior and Counselor of our souls,

+Antony, Metropolitan of the UOC of the USA

+Daniel, Bishop of the UOC of the USA