Bangor Cathedral to be lit in Ukrainian colours
Bangor Cathedral will be lit in the Ukrainian colours of blue and yellow on Sunday evening at the end of a day of prayer across the UK and Ireland. The international development charity Christian Aid has encouraged churches to pray for the people of Ukraine and for an end to the conflict.
As well as Bangor Cathedral, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Methodist Central Hall in London will be lit on Saturday evening, and in Scotland, St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh and Glasgow Cathedral will also be lit on Sunday.
The Archbishop of Wales, Andrew John said:
‘The outpouring of love from the people of Wales to the people of Ukraine at this time has been astonishing. It is also so good to see an united approach across the Christian churches in Wales for the prayer initiative on Sunday. I’m delighted that Bangor Cathedral will be lit in Ukraine’s colours and that we will be joined by Cathedrals in London, Edinburgh and Glasgow in this wonderful act of solidarity across the three nations. I would urge all who pray to join us on Sunday in what will be a very special act of witness.’
Mari McNeill, Head of Christian Aid in Wales, said:
‘The generosity shown by the people of Wales in this period has been astounding. The humanitarian crisis that has developed as a result of the conflict has meant that more than three million people have fled Ukraine and many more have fled their homes for safety within Ukraine itself. Christian Aid’s partners are working on the ground to help refugees, supplying them with food, water, shelter and hygiene kits. It is a desperate situation but the response by ordinary people in Wales has been so encouraging.’
Chair of Christian Aid and former Archbishop of York, John Sentamu, added:
‘Like the people of Ukraine looking out for their neighbours or the charity workers delivering emergency food to people seeking refuge, we must bring hope.
‘That is why Christians from across the UK and Ireland - recognising the God-given human dignity and rights of every human being - are uniting in an act of witness to pray for Ukraine and an end to the conflict.
‘With one voice, we are uniting behind a simple message: immediately agree to a ceasefire and unequivocally commit to protect civilians and key services.
‘Every prayer, every gift, every action brings hope to the people of Ukraine. By joining us, you can give hope to our brothers and sisters in Ukraine.’
Bangor Cathedral will be lit from 8.00pm till 9.30pm