Ukraine Celebrates Military Chaplains Day Amid Ongoing Conflict
On October 12, Ukraine celebrates Military Chaplains Day, a tribute to those who provide spiritual support to military personnel during their most challenging moments on the front lines, reports 24brussels.
The Armed Forces of Ukraine extended greetings to military chaplains on this occasion, emphasizing their crucial role in providing support.
“Your prayer is our rear guard and our defense. Thank you!” stated the Ukrainian Navy in a Telegram message to chaplains.
The Airborne Command added, “You support our soldiers with words, prayers, and faith. You are the backbone of spirit, helping them stand firm when strength wanes. Thank you for your service, kindness, resilience, and dedication to Ukraine.”
Members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine recognize the vital contributions of chaplains, who bolster morale, conduct rituals, offer psychological support to those in need, and assist families of soldiers on the front lines or those who have lost loved ones.
General Commander of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, expressed heartfelt sentiments about the chaplains’ role as combat friends. “Through your prayers, wise words, and kind hearts, you strengthen the spirit of Ukrainian soldiers, without which faith in our victory is impossible,” he remarked.
Syrskyi noted his pride in the chaplaincy in the Armed Forces, which unites representatives of major religious denominations—Christian, Muslim, and Jewish—highlighting Ukraine’s unique experience of interfaith peace and cooperation in supporting the nation’s defense.
“I thank each military chaplain for their dedicated service and daily efforts for the benefit of our soldiers,” he added.
On this day, he bowed his head in prayer and remembrance of the Ukrainian chaplains who have fallen at the hands of Russian aggressors.
“May the Almighty protect and strengthen each Ukrainian chaplain in their service,” the commander concluded in an official Telegram channel.
The history of military chaplaincy dates back to the 4th century, during the life of St. Martin (317–397 AD), who served as an officer in Gaul. This is corroborated by several historical texts, including the Primary Chronicle and various chronicles from different periods.
Historical sources, such as the Chronicle of Samuel Velychko and the Rihlam Chronicle, indicate the significant role of clergy during the Cossack times, where Cossack councils were held in proximity to a church and in the presence of a priest. Fast forward to the 20th century, this phenomenon was also recorded within the Ukrainian Insurgent Army, where clergy from Greek Catholics, Orthodox, and Protestants served.
Chaplaincy in the Armed Forces of Ukraine began formally in 2021, although it effectively emerged during the initial Russian invasions of Crimea and Donbas in 2014. Currently, over 300 priests and theologians from 13 religious organizations serve in the military.
