It is the second parliamentary prayer breakfast, which creates a basis for understanding between politicians, entrepreneurs, government officials, and the public around universal and moral values.
At the beginning of the Prayer Breakfast, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed those present online. He thanked the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Ruslan Stefanchuk, for organizing this event and emphasized its importance for uniting society.
"Morality, faith, and courage united countries and leaders in the struggle for life. It is reminiscent of the Christian idea: when darkness seems boundless, suddenly light appears. And different forces rise to protect what is important," the Head of State emphasized.
In his welcoming speech, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Ruslan Stefanchuk, emphasized the importance of unity, traditions, and community for the Ukrainian nation.
"I am extremely pleased to welcome you to the second parliamentary prayer breakfast. We are forming a wonderful tradition - pre-Christmas prayer and a meal in the circle of like-minded people, partners, brothers, and sisters. It is nice to see representatives of different political forces, beliefs and confessions, and different branches of government. Different, but united," highlighted the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada.
He also called for remembering all Ukrainians who fought for the independence of Ukraine. "Let's pray for our soldiers, for their victory and courage. May they all return home. And may the memory of the fallen be eternal," Ruslan Stefanchuk added.
In his speech, the Speaker of the Parliament also emphasized the fundamental difference between Ukraine and its enemy: "Our traditions are love for our land, language, history, and neighbour. In contrast, the enemy has traditions of aggression, seizure of foreign land, and lies. We must oppose this with our values – peace, respect, and justice."
Ruslan Stefanchuk wished endurance and peace for Ukrainians: "May the Lord give us the strength to endure all trials. And may this war be the last for Ukraine. We will win, and a just and lasting peace will come. Glory to Ukraine!", he said at the end of his speech.
In his turn, Prime Minister of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, underlined the power of unity and joint prayer as meaningful factors for Ukraine's victory: "Today we are united in prayer. And we must also be united in our daily work for the liberation and restoration of Ukraine. Unity in goals, deeds, actions – this is our right path." He emphasized that the consolidation of Ukrainians and the support of international partners are the keys to stability and success.
The leadership of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, people's deputies of Ukraine, the Prime Minister of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, government officials, spiritual leaders of various faiths, chaplains, war veterans, and public activists participated in the Christmas Prayer Breakfast.
