A large prayer breakfast was held in Dnipro, bringing together representatives of various religious denominations, government agencies, public organizations, educators, the medical community, youth, and other active participants in Ukrainian public life.
The prayer breakfast brought together approximately four hundred participants and became an important platform for interfaith communication, public dialogue, and shared prayer for Ukraine, its people, and a dignified future.
The tradition of prayer breakfasts exists in many countries around the world and serves as a platform for dialogue, strengthening mutual understanding, and finding unifying values. In Ukraine, such meetings have become an important part of interfaith and public interaction, fostering respect between representatives of various religious traditions and social groups.
As Metropolitan Simeon of Dnipro and Sicheslav, Head of the Diocese of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, noted: “This is a great union of hearts in a single, common prayer for Ukraine. It is important that we are not divided, but united.” Uniting in heart and soul, we pray for the preservation of our Ukraine.”
During the prayer breakfast, Chief Rabbi of Dnipro and the region Shmuel Kaminezky also addressed the gathering. In his address, he spoke of love, respect, and unity as the spiritual foundation of Ukrainian society, emphasizing that today Ukraine is the center of the world’s attention and an example of resilience and fidelity to its values. “Ukraine was once one of 195 countries in the world, and today the whole world is watching Ukraine,” Rabbi Shmuel Kaminezky noted, calling for continued prayer for peace, prosperity, and a dignified future for Ukraine. Concluding his address, he sang the “Ose Shalom” prayer, wishing peace for Ukraine and Israel.
U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Julie S. Davis, a.i., addressed the participants of the Dnipro prayer breakfast, which brought together representatives of several special regions, via video link. She noted: “I had very much hoped to be with you in Dnipro this morning for this truly important gathering. But, unfortunately, I cannot be with you in person. Nevertheless, I sincerely wish I could sit with you and pray together for the future of Ukraine. Together, pray for peace, for what lies ahead for Ukraine. Together, celebrate the 250th anniversary of the independence of the United States. I have known the city of Dnipro for over 30 years. It played a significant role in my acquaintance with Ukraine when I first came here as a diplomat. A special experience for me was meeting the Jewish community of Dnipro, when I witnessed firsthand the revival of faith among so many people. It was here that I realized how important faith is in diplomacy and how it helps us better understand the people who are striving to build a bright future for Ukraine. This morning, you have gathered together. And know this: my prayer is for our leaders in Washington and for your leaders in Kyiv, that together they can find a path to the kind of peace that Ukraine so richly deserves. A peace that honors its defenders and heroes. A peace that secures a future for us all.”
Representatives of various religious communities participated in the event, joining in a common prayer for Ukraine, its well-being, peace, prosperity, and the preservation of the spiritual values that form the foundation of a strong and free society.
During the meeting, participants discussed the importance of faith, spiritual responsibility, love for one’s country, the need to maintain moral compass, and the importance of joint efforts for Ukraine’s development. Particular attention was paid to the role of religious communities in strengthening social harmony, supporting people, and promoting the values of mutual respect and cooperation.
The Jewish Community of Dnipro traditionally takes an active part in initiatives aimed at developing interreligious dialogue, strengthening social harmony, and supporting Ukraine through the affirmation of spiritual and moral values.
