The World Must Hear Your Stories: Why the Taizé Brothers Visit Ukraine During the War
Since the outbreak of the full-scale war, the Taizé community has not abandoned Ukraine in its trials. Brothers from this international Christian community regularly undertake missionary visits to express support and solidarity, praying with Ukrainian communities and young people enduring this difficult time. Each visit is not only a gesture of support but also an opportunity to witness the realities of war, pray with those fighting for peace, and console those living in constant danger.
In March 2025, Brothers Norbert from Germany and Jasper from the Netherlands made a missionary visit to Ukraine, during which they traveled to near-front territories and communities within the Donetsk Exarchate of the UGCC. They visited Lviv, Ternopil, Kyiv, Dnipro, Odesa, as well as Kramatorsk and Dobropillia in the east of the country. There, they had the opportunity to meet and pray with Donetsk Exarch Maksym Ryabukha, local residents, youth, and military personnel.
Brothers Norbert and Jasper shared their reflections, impressions of what they saw and heard in Ukraine, and their experiences from such visits with the UGCC Information Department.
Church as a Center of Steadfast Support
Over the past three years, more than ten brothers from the Taizé community have traveled to Ukraine. Reflecting on their recent visit, Brothers Norbert and Jasper emphasized that the Church in Ukraine has become a source of spiritual renewal and a pillar of support for people enduring the hardships of war.
Brother Norbert was particularly moved by the words of Bishop Maksym Ryabukha, Donetsk Exarch of the UGCC, who underscored the Church’s role as a distinct and unwavering voice in society—one that fosters moral purification and national unity.
Brothers visit UGCC parish in Shakhtarske, Dnipro region
“The Church is called not only to be a temple but also a place where people can express their pain and mourning,” Brother Norbert shared. “During our visit, we saw many graves of young soldiers who died defending their land. The Church offers a space for people to process their grief together—to pray, honor the fallen, and find the strength to carry on.”
One of the most striking aspects of the war, they observed, is how it reshapes people’s perception of spirituality and ministry. Despite the horrors of war, young people strive to maintain a sense of normalcy—holding on to their faith, praying, studying, and working.
“I was deeply moved by my meeting with military chaplains in Dnipro,” Brother Jasper said. “They are ordinary people who dedicate their time to serving as chaplains, meeting with soldiers who are often traumatized. This is incredibly meaningful.”
The Power of International Christian Fellowship
Each year, the international Christian ecumenical community Taizé organizes gatherings for young people from around the world. However, as Brothers Norbert and Jasper explained, “Since February 2022, many Ukrainians have been unable to participate in these prayer meetings or visit us in Taizé, France. That’s why we are coming to them—to bring a sign of friendship.”
“Another purpose of our visit is to share your stories with our country,” added Br. Norbert. “All we can do in France is read newspapers, which focus mostly on politics. But what we truly need is to hear the voices and experiences of those who live through this war every day.”
Brother Norbert with the youth of the Kolomyia Eparchy of the UGCC
The brothers from Taizé emphasized that spending time with Ukrainians enduring war, praying with them, and drawing inspiration from their resilience and generosity was deeply meaningful to them.
They also reconnected with Ukrainians who had once visited Taizé and are now serving in the army, working in hospitals, or supporting their communities. Seeing how war had transformed their lives was a stark reminder of both the hardships they face and the vital role of Christian fellowship in providing support during these difficult times.
Reflecting on their visit to the Donetsk Exarchate, Br. Jasper shared that what struck him most was the sharp contrast between ordinary life in big cities and the harsh realities at the front. Yet, even in such conditions, he felt that faith remained fundamental—not only as a source of prayer for peace but as a driving force for those actively working to rebuild their country.
Ukrainians Inspire the World
Speaking about Ukraine’s future, Br. Norbert shared the brothers’ common conviction: life cannot be stopped. “In a town near the frontline, we saw an elderly woman who had remained on her property, tending to her garden. She was planting a tree—even in the midst of war! This is a powerful sign of hope for the future. Life in Ukraine will flourish again, despite everything,” he said.
At the end of their visit, the brothers addressed all Ukrainians: “You are a message to the world. Your life, your struggle, and your faith are the most profound testimony we can bring back home. Your strength and determination inspire us, and we feel that this unites us more than any words could.”
Brother Jasper with the youth of the Ternopil-Zboriv Archeparchy of the UGCC
Through their words, actions, and presence, the brothers of the Taizé community bear witness to the light of hope that shines even in the darkest times—one that is found in community, prayer, and mutual support. The spirit of faith and solidarity expressed in Taizé’s prayers resonates not only with Ukraine but with the entire world, which continues to face its own challenges and conflicts.
Reference
The Taizé Community is an international ecumenical Christian community founded in 1940 by Brother Roger in Taizé, France. It unites brothers from various countries and Christian traditions, who live a life of prayer, community, and simplicity. Taizé is renowned for its international youth gatherings, which draw thousands of participants from around the world each year. The community’s primary mission is to foster unity among Christians.
The UGCC Department for Information
