Cathedrals will be floodlit in the colours of the Ukrainian flag, candles will be lit and services, prayer vigils and other events will take place across the country in churches to mark the first anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Many of the Church of England’s Cathedrals and churches are to hold prayer vigils – some over a 24-hour period - with contributions from Ukrainian refugees, choirs and other members of the community.
The services are being arranged as the Government announced a national moment of silence at 11am on Friday in solidarity with Ukraine.
In rural as well as urban areas, parishes where families are hosting Ukrainian refugees will open their doors for prayer, reflection and music to mark the anniversary.
At Bradford Cathedral an hour-long service on Friday evening will include lament for the impact of the war, prayer for peace in Ukraine, and music from the city’s Ukrainian choirs.
The Bishop of Bradford, Toby Howarth, said: “Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine one year ago has caused misery not only for Ukrainians but has led to immense hardship for many others across the world.
“It is important that we mark this anniversary standing together as communities across Bradford in solidarity with all those who suffer from war and occupation.”
The Association of English Cathedrals has published details of services, events and vigils for the anniversary. Ukraine - .
An appeal organised by USPG and the Diocese in Europe has raised more than £400,000 so far for humanitarian work in Ukraine and amongst Ukrainian refugees. It has published a series of short films on how these funds are being used to support Ukrainian refugees. .
Since the start of the war in February 2022, many dioceses have worked with charities to provide hosts for Ukrainian refugees.
The General Synod of the Church of England voted last July to condemn the invasion with members backing a call for Christians and people of all faiths to pray for an end to the war and for parishes and dioceses to work towards providing long term refuge and hospitality for refugees. .