14 October 2008, 08:00
The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine
The Chairman of The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine
Today we celebrate a joyous and heartwarming feast - Holy Protection of the Virgin Mary.
In due time, having conquered Pechenegs, grand prince Yaroslav Mudry gave entire Ukrainian nation under the Holy Protection of the Virgin Mary. Since those times, this feast has united our nation spiritually.
The history keeps evidence how the Virgin Mary protected Ukrainians and Cossack troops by her supreme will, inspired the warriors to fight the enemies. In Ukraine, the Feast of Holy Protection of the Virgin Mary obtained another name - Cossack Holy Protection, and is celebrated as the Day of Ukrainian Cossacks.
I sincerely wish you happiness, welfare and bright future!