Photo: Office of the Ukraine President
The Conference of European Churches (CEC) was invited to participate in the National Prayer Breakfast of Ukraine, held in Kyiv on 23 August 2026 under the patronage of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
CEC was represented by its General Secretary, Rev. Frank-Dieter Fischbach. The interfaith gathering brought together more than 1,500 participants, including 670 international guests from 17 countries. Political and religious leaders, military personnel, chaplains, families of fallen soldiers and civil society representatives attended.
The gathering offered space for prayer and dialogue on peace, justice, freedom and responsibility. It took place on the eve of the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence.
In his address, President Zelenskyy called on participants to remember those held in captivity, those serving in battle and all those longing for peace.
“Please let us pray today for three important things. For those in captivity – that they all may make it through. For those in battle – that they may return. And for peace for Ukraine, that it may come – a just peace, a lasting peace, strong as our people are strong, and just,” said President Zelenskyy.
He also urged international participants not to look away from Ukraine.
“The war has been going on for a long time, and the greatest danger now is not fatigue at the front. No. It is the world getting used to it. Speak more about Ukraine – I very much ask you. Do more for Ukraine. Visit Ukrainians whenever possible,” President Zelenskyy said.
During the event, Rev. Frank-Dieter Fischbach met representatives of Ukrainian churches and other partners cooperating with CEC through its Pathways to Peace initiative. He also met Prof. Viktor Yelensky, Head of the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnic Policy and Freedom of Conscience.
Reflecting on CEC’s participation, Fischbach said, “The National Prayer Breakfast was an important opportunity to meet our Ukrainian partners and representatives of the different churches with which we cooperate through Pathways to Peace.
“Together, we prayed for a just and lasting peace. We also shared in the grief and mourning for the victims of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine and recognised the immense suffering of the Ukrainian people.
“After so many years of war, people are understandably tired. Yet their resilience remains a sign of hope. They refuse to abandon their pursuit of peace, freedom and justice. European churches must continue to listen to them, stand alongside them and ensure that the world does not become accustomed to this war.”
Through Pathways to Peace, CEC brings churches together and strengthens dialogue among Ukrainian churches, ecumenical organisations and European institutions. The initiative amplifies Ukrainian voices and supports advocacy for justice, reconciliation and a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and across Europe.