Interreligious Forum on the Challenges of War for the Ukrainian Family Takes Place in Kyiv
On April 9, a two-day interreligious Christian-Muslim forum titled “Ukrainian Family: Challenges of War” began in the hall of the Patriarchal Administration of the UGCC. The event was organized by the UGCC Commission on Interfaith and Interreligious Relations, in cooperation with the Spiritual Directorate of Muslims of Ukraine “Ummah” and the Institute of Religion and Society of UCU.
According to Fr. Igor Shaban, chairman of the UGCC Commission on Interfaith and Interreligious Relations, the forum seeks to present a modern, integrated concept of family values in both religions, explore key issues affecting Muslim and Christian families, and promote positive interaction between Christian and Muslim communities in Ukraine.
“These discussions are vital, especially given the ongoing war and the aggression of our northern neighbor, which is destroying our country and, as a result—our families. We are trying to consider what lies ahead, so that we can begin to anticipate possible actions to support Ukrainian families, regardless of their religious affiliation,” said Fr. Igor Shaban.
At the opening of the forum, Bishop Andriy Khimyak, Auxiliary Bishop of the Kyiv Archeparchy, welcomed the participants. He emphasized the importance of such interreligious initiatives, particularly in the context of the family and family values. According to the bishop, the war has impacted every family differently, making it essential to find ways to preserve the Ukrainian family.
“Thank you for your presence and willingness to cooperate in this area. We work together for the good of Ukraine, for the good of our Ukrainian family, so that those who live their lives within families in Ukraine may be happy and blessed.”
Bishop Bohdan Manyshyn, head of the Department of Military Chaplaincy of the Patriarchal Curia of the UGCC, then addressed the forum participants.
“To the glory of God, first and foremost, there must be dialogue in the family. New life is born from the good relationship between a man and a woman, which is an institution established by God,” said Bishop Bohdan.
The Christian-Muslim forum “Ukrainian Family: Challenges of War”is being held on April 9–10, 2025, at the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ.
The UGCC Department for Information
