Ukraine: Metropolitan Yevlohiy awarded with the Medal For Dignity and Patriotism for their support of defenders of Ukraine

On 5 December 2025, the International Volunteer Day, the border guards of Sumy region awarded Metropolitan Yevlohiy of Sumy and Okhtyrka and Archpriest Oleksandr Petrenko with the Medal For Dignity and Patriotism for their support for defenders of Ukraine. The Information and Education Department of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church reports with reference to the press service of the Diocese of Sumy.

That day, the Ruling Bishop of the UOC Diocese of Sumy met with the leadership of the border guards in Sumy region. The meeting was also attended by the head of the Diocesan Centre for the Spiritual Rehabilitation of Soldiers and Civilians Affected by Hostilities, Archpriest Oleksandr Petrenko, and the secretary of the diocese, Archimandrite Anastasiy (Panov).

The leadership of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine in Sumy region noted the multi-year, systematic, and consistent help provided by the Diocese of Sumy to border guards, servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and other defence units. As a token of gratitude, Metropolitan Yevlohiy was presented with the Medal For Dignity and Patriotism.

Vladyka Yevlohiy thanked for the high award and assured that the Church’s support for Ukrainian defenders would be carried on. He also stressed the importance of spiritual care, prayer, and practical help to those who were defending the state.

The Medal For Dignity and Patriotism was also awarded to Archpriest Oleksandr Petrenko, who takes pastoral care and carries out spiritual rehabilitation of servicemen and civilians affected by the war and organises practical volunteer help to defenders of Ukraine.

The meeting ended with a warm conversation and friendly tea in a fraternal atmosphere of gratitude and support. (Quelle: www.uoc-news.church, 6. Dezember 2025)