The Central Presbyterian Church in Atlanta, Georgia released a new hymn for peace amid the increasing tension between Russia and Ukraine.

In a Facebook post on Friday, Feb. 25, the Central Presbyterian Church said Rev. Carolyn Winfrey Gillette, a Presbyterian hymn writer who has written new lyrics for over 400 hymns, has published her newest hymn, "We Pray for Peace," to Finlandia, the melody for the hymns "Be Still, My Soul" and "This is My Song."

As Ukraine defends itself against the Russian invasion, this new anthem is written, according to the Central Presbyterian Church.

During these challenging times, let the people not lose heart and trust in God, the church said.

It added that it might bring the voices of Central and the rest of the world together to pray for peace.

Readers may visit the Central Presbyterian Church’s Facebook post to read the full hymn for peace.

They may also visit the church’s Facebook page for more information.

Russian, Ukraine Tension

According to the report of the Associated Press, a Russian military convoy threatening Kyiv is far larger than first imagined, according to satellite photographs released on Monday, with the convoy filling much of a 40-mile (64-kilometer) length of road north of the Ukrainian capital.

The report said as Russia's invasion encountered unexpectedly heavy resistance, explosions and gunfire were heard in contested cities in eastern Ukraine.

Monday marked the fifth day of Russia's military assault on Ukraine, it stated.

A Ukrainian group met with Russian officials near the Belarusian border, but no agreements were reached other than to continue talking. President Emmanuel Macron of France spoke with Putin on the phone, pressing him to stop the offensive.

Meanwhile, the Russian ruble has plummeted as a result of Western sanctions caused by the invasion, forcing ordinary Russians to queue at banks and ATMs, according to the report.

Russian teams were also barred from all international soccer matches, including World Cup qualifiers in 2022, putting the country on the verge of becoming a sporting pariah.

The report said Kyiv's outgunned but resolute troops delayed Russia's approach and, for the time being, held on to the capital and other major cities.

Officials from the United States believe the invasion has been more difficult than the Kremlin anticipated, though this may change as Moscow adjusts. Ukraine's airspace remained under Russian control.

COVID-19 Protocols

For the church's worship service, the Central Presbyterian Church has relaxed its coronavirus disease (COVID-19) precautions.

Central Presbyterian Church reported on Facebook on Saturday, Feb. 12, that its COVID procedures are being eased once more at Central.

According to the church, the Covid-19 statistical data has improved, particularly in regard to the highly transmissible Omicron strain, and immunizations are now available for all Americans aged 5 and up.

At its stated meeting on Feb. 7, the Session of Central Presbyterian Church loosened worship and other gathering regulations, according to the church.

Beginning on Sunday, Feb. 13, the church will be open for interior events such as Sunday School classes, receptions, meetings, and rehearsals, according to the post.

Other parts of the worship experience gradually returned to the church beginning Feb. 13 with a full choir and A Time With Children, according to the church. Sunday church services were streamed live on the internet.

 

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