The All-Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations (UCCRO) has called for ending shelling of Ukrainian cities and villages, and for quelling offensive hostilities at least during Passover, Ramadan, and Easter.
“As representatives of the religious community of Ukraine, we call to stop shelling of cities and villages of Ukraine, to quell the offensive at least throughout the sacred days for all three religions,” reads the statement.
The All-Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations is convinced that if there is a desire and good will, the Russian side in the ongoing negotiation process and contacts with the competent Ukraine officials could reach agreements that would allow civilians to meet and celebrate holy days with no shelling threat or other risks to life.
This year, on April 17 (Western calendar), and on April 24 (Eastern calendar), Christians celebrate Easter. From the evening of April 15 to the evening of April 23, the Jews celebrate Passover. Until the end of April, Muslims celebrate the month of Ramadan.
“May the Almighty inspire with wisdom and mercy all those on whom the solution of the issue depends,” the appeal concluded.
It should be recalled that earlier, the UCCRO declared that the exchange of prisoners could become an expression of goodwill on the part of both parties.
