We thank you, we bow, we pray...

On October 1, we celebrate three significant holidays that are historically intertwined. The Feast of the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos has long been considered the talisman of the Ukrainian army, a symbol of hope and protection. The Day of the Defender of Ukraine is a tribute to the courage and indomitability of those who today fight for our freedom and future every day. And the Day of the Ukrainian Cossacks reminds us of the strength of our roots, traditions and struggle for freedom.
These three holidays embody the unity of the spiritual, historical and modern.
The Protection gives a spiritual shield, and our warriors are a real shield for the entire country. Just as the Cossacks once raised the banner of the struggle for freedom, so now our defenders hold it high, proving to the whole world the invincibility of the Ukrainian spirit.
May the Protection be a sign of unity and protection for each of us, and the example of our warriors inspires us not to lose faith, support each other and boldly look to the future.
We are strong when we are together. We will win, because with us is truth, faith, and love for Ukraine.