March 2025 | Prayer and Support for Ukraine

United Methodist Church bishops issue call for prayer and support for Ukraine

Editor’s Note:  The Council of  Bishops released  the following statement on Friday, 21 February 2025, marking three years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.  The statement expresses solidarity,    support, and prayers for the people of Ukraine and The United      Methodist Church of Ukraine and the   ongoing conflict.

 On this solemn  anniversary marking three years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, we, the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church extend our support and hope in the midst of the ongoing conflict and war.

We acknowledge the enduring pain, fear and uncertainty you face, yet we also witness the remarkable strength and hope you continue to demonstrate. Scripture reminds us, “The Lord is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). We trust that God is ever near, upholding you in your grief and surrounding you with grace.

We urge all United Methodists around the world to continue to pray for and support The United Methodist Church of Ukraine and the people of Ukraine.

We pray for God’s intervention to end the violence and lead the nations’ leaders toward justice, so that peace may prevail, communities be restored and families   reunited.

We pray for peace, a deep lasting peace that comes from God’s justice and mercy. Jesus said, “blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9).

May you draw strength from God our  creator, who walks with you in suffering and remains ever faithful. May the    prayers and support of United Methodists around the world bring you comfort and hope.

Grace and Peace,
Bishop Tracy S. Malone
President, Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church