London: Boris Johnson makes solidarity visit to Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral

Bishop Kenneth Nowakowski, Boris Johnson

The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Boris Johnson, visited the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Cathedral of the Holy Family in London this evening, to deliver an address of support for the Ukraine. After lighting a candle he was introduced by Eparch (Bishop) Kenneth Nowakowski at the end of the evening liturgy.

He informed those present that he had spoken to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, telling him the heroism of the Ukrainian people in defence of their country was awe-inspiring. Mr Johnson assured the congregation that Britain would do all that it could to strengthen the Ukrainians as they fought to retain their independence.

He said there were three reasons for Britain to support Ukraine: First, there was the parable of the Good Samaritan, which reminded us of the Christian teaching that when a victim of injustice was in urgent need of help, it was everyone's duty to come to their aid, for they were our neighbour. Secondly, Ukraine was Britain's neighbour because Britain shared Ukraine's ideals of freedom and democracy and independence.

'We must not and cannot allow those ideals to be trampled on, on our European continent,' he said.

Thirdly, Jesus's point was that helping others in need was that it was the right thing to do in and of itself. 'Even without the bonds that existed between Britain and Ukraine,' he said, "it would still be right to help Ukraine in any way that we can."

The emotional congregation applauded at the end and burst into rhythmic clapping as they chanted, 'Thank you! Thank you!'

Holy Family Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral is in Duke Street, Mayfair, and holds four services each Sunday.

Watch a clip of Mr Johnson speaking during the visit: https://fb.watch/brHzHKHuJD/

LINKS

Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral - www.ucc-gb.com/
UCC Facebook - www.facebook.com/UkrainianCatholicCathedralOfTheHolyFamily/