Liverpool Cathedral and Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral in cooperation with the Ukrainian Catholic parish in Liverpool and the AUGB (Liverpool Branch) will mark the anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine with a special vigil on Friday 24^th February.  The vigil will start on the plaza of the Metropolitan Cathedral at 4:30 pm before continuing at Liverpool Cathedral at 5:30 pm.

All are welcome to the vigil which will include speakers representing a range of faiths, a choir of Ukrainian singers, Evensong sung by Liverpool Cathedral Choir and space to reflect, light candles, pray and sit in peace.

Canon Anthony O’Brien, Dean of the Metropolitan Cathedral, said, ‘As a Cathedral and diocese we have close links with the Ukrainian community here on Merseyside and strong links with a Catholic Diocese in Ukraine.  As we mark the first anniversary of the invasion of their sovereign territory, we stand with our Ukrainian brothers and sisters to pray for an end to the conflict, for peace and for a just settlement.  We remember also the many innocent people who have lost their lives as a result of this war over the last twelve months.’

The Very Reverend Dr Sue Jones, Dean of Liverpool, said, ‘Liverpool Cathedral stands for peace among all peoples, and we offer our prayers for peace, the people of Ukraine and those who have come to our city to escape the trauma of war.  This conflict has affected many and daily we see people who need love and support through the consequences of this terrible war.  So, we encourage all to come and be part of this special vigil.’

Rev Dr Taras Khomych from the Ukrainian Catholic Parish added, ‘This vigil is an expression of our solidarity with the Ukrainian people, who are defending not only their own territorial integrity and statehood but also the fundamental values of our civilisation such as freedom and human dignity against the attacks of a ruthless authoritarian regime.  We will pray for all those who have sacrificed their lives in a struggle against this vicious aggression, which started in2014 but escalated on 24 February 2022, as well as for the rule of justice and lasting peace in Ukraine and around the world.’

Order of service

4:30pm          Vigil starts at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral Plaza - Hear from speakers from a variety of faiths.

5.00 pm          People free to make their own way to Liverpool Cathedral

5:30pm          Evensong sung by Liverpool Cathedral Choir with appropriate readings and prayers.

Choir of Ukrainian Singers lead a liturgy of the commemoration of the dead.

After evensong you will have the opportunity to light candles sit, pray and reflect as the cathedral remains open until 7.00 pm

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