On March 6, 2022, the President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Matarella, visited the Patriarchal Procathedral of St. Sophia in Rome and prayed with the Ukrainian people to end the war in Ukraine.
His presence at the Divine Liturgy demonstrated an authentic expression of solidarity with Ukraine and its citizens. It manifested faith in Ukraine’s peaceful future and respect for the tireless struggle for our nation’s independence and sovereignty.
“The visit of President Sergio Matarella gave us a special feeling. We felt a loving and solid brotherly embrace of Italy not only towards the community of Saint Sophia but towards the entire Ukrainian nation. Despite the fatigue, this gesture of support gave us the strength of spirit, motivation, and inspiration to continue our constant prayer and struggle. In your person, dearest Mr. President, we want to express our gratitude to all the Italian people who pray for us and support us every day.” — Fr. Marco Yaroslav Semehen, President of the Society of St. Sophia, Rector of the Cathedral of St. Sophia