South Wales churches host vigil for peace in Ukraine

Diocese of Llandaff is hosting a vigil for peace in Ukraine on Thursday 3 March at St John's Church in Cardiff City Centre.

The diocese will be joined at the vigil by members of the Senedd, including members of the Cross-Party Group on Faith. The vigil begins at 5pm with a prayer procession through Cardiff from St Mary's Church Butetown to St John's Church Cardiff. Prayers will be said outside St John's Church at 5.30pm before moving inside for a service of peace. The vigil will include prayers, speakers and singing.

Bishop of Llandaff, June Osborne, says, "The Diocese of Llandaff stands in solidarity with our sisters and brothers in Ukraine. We condemn Russia's brutal and unprovoked attack on a democratic country and we pray for a peaceful and swift resolution.

"I have watched the news unfold in horror, and like many others, I have felt helpless. It is my hope that the Vigil for Peace will provide a space for people across South Wales to come together in prayer as we pledge our continued support for Ukraine."

Organiser of the Vigil for Peace Chris Auckland, Senior Outreach Officer, says, "As Christians our response at times of crisis is rooted in prayer. There is power in lamenting with the people of Ukraine, standing in unity in grief for the innocent and frightened, and praying for peace. But prayer must always come with action.

"We need to step-up for the people of Ukraine, to unite the church in providing the clothing, sanitary products, medicines and supplies that the people in Ukraine need. The UK must do more to offer sanctuary to those in need of safety."

Prayer must always come with action.

Archbishop of Wales, Andy John, says, "I join with our political and church leaders in condemning the actions taken by the Russian Federation and urge a return, by all, to negotiation. I invite you to join me in praying for all those involved and for peace to return swiftly."

Vigil for peace

1. 16.30 - Gather at St. Mary’s Butetown. On street parking is available.
2. 17.00 - Walk from St. Mary’s to St. John the Baptist Cardiff.
3. 17.30 - 18.30 - vigil and prayer will be held outside St John’s before a service for peace begins inside.

All are welcome.

Depaul International, parent organisation to Depaul Ukraine has launched an emergency appeal for Ukraine as millions flee and face shelling from Russian forces. The homelessness charity, which works in Odessa, Kharkiv and Ivano -Frankivsk territories, is remaining in place, offering emergency shelter, advice and food to homeless people across Ukraine, who are terrified as Russia launches a full-scale invasion. The charity is urgently appealing for funds as the situation escalates.

This toolkit will help you and your church to provide practical support to the people of Ukraine.