As the bells of Holy Pascha rang across the world, proclaiming the radiant joy of Christ’s Resurrection from the dead and the triumph of life over death, the faithful of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the United States of America turned their hearts not only to their own altars and parishes but also – especially - to those who could not be present at the Paschal celebrations: the brave men and women of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, defending the dignity, sovereignty, and sacred soil of Ukraine.

While families gathered around festal tables and churches resounded with the victorious hymn “Christ is Risen from the dead, trampling down death by death…”, many of our brothers and sisters stood watch in trenches, forests, and front-line zones, their only celebration being the quiet hope in their hearts and the strength of their faith.

Moved by this powerful reality, the UOC of the USA - under the archpastoral leadership of His Eminence Archbishop Daniel, with the blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Antony, Prime Hierarch of the UOC of the USA, and in close cooperation with Archbishop Mytrofan of Kharkiv and Bohodukhiv of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, who himself serves as an active military chaplain - organized and delivered hundreds of Paschal Baskets to the defenders of Ukraine. These sacred baskets, lovingly prepared and prayerfully blessed, were transported to military installations, checkpoints, and remote front-line regions across Ukraine.

“Pascha is the victory of Divine Light over darkness. It is the Feast of Feasts - when the tomb is empty and death is no longer the final word,” said Archbishop Daniel, reflecting on the mission. “For those who stand against evil and defend the sanctity of human life, the light of Christ’s Resurrection shines ever more powerfully. We must bring that light to them, just as they bring hope and protection to us.”

Thanks to the efforts of chaplains of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine - many of whom serve directly in the trenches alongside the soldiers—these baskets were distributed with prayers, words of encouragement, and the blessing of Metropolitan Epiphaniy, Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine. Among the devoted chaplains, the Church expresses profound gratitude to Archbishop Mytrofan, whose unceasing ministry brings comfort and strength to the soldiers, and to Deacon Andrii of the Kyiv Metropolia of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, who labors daily to care for the spiritual and physical needs of the men and women in uniform.

“A Paschal basket may seem simple,” remarked Archbishop Mytrofan, “but for a soldier far from home, it is a sacred reminder that they are not forgotten. That their sacrifice is honored. That the Church walks with them - even through the valley of the shadow of death.”

The Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA has, since the beginning of the war, stood firmly with the people of Ukraine - not only in word, but in action: through ongoing humanitarian aid, medical assistance, support for refugees and orphans, and direct aid to hospitals and volunteer networks. This Paschal outreach is yet another testament to the Church’s living Gospel witness.

“This war is not just about land,” added Archbishop Daniel. “It is about the spiritual battle between truth and falsehood, life and death, dignity and tyranny. And while political leaders may be silent, and even some religious leaders in Moscow bless the machinery of death - we, the Church of Christ, must stand with the innocent, the suffering, and the brave defenders of peace and justice. This is what it means to proclaim Christ’s Resurrection in the world today.”

As we celebrate the empty tomb, we also embrace the suffering crosses of our fellow brothers and sisters in Ukraine. Their courage mirrors the sacrificial love of Christ. Their steadfastness reflects the hope of the Resurrection.

The Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA calls upon all faithful, all parishes, and all people of good will to continue supporting its charitable ministry - so that even in war, the light of Pascha may not be extinguished.

Let us, with one voice and one heart, echo the cry of the Resurrection across the front lines, into every trench and hidden post: “Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen!”

For contributions to the ongoing humanitarian efforts, please visit www.uocofusa.org or follow this link. Every prayer, every donation, every act of love helps us bring Resurrection joy to those who most need it.