Several churches around the Central Florida area took part in a prayer vigil for peace in Ukraine. They encouraged communities to join them in solidarity for peace in the country.
Solidarity with Ukraine
In a report with WFTV, the prayer vigil took place on Friday, Mar. 18. The event was held at Deltona City Hall. Vice Mayor Maritza Avila-Vazquez organized the worship event.
People of all faiths were encouraged to attend. Among the churches that attended the event included New Hope Baptist Church, Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church, and Movement Church.
The Vice Mayor organized the event following the attacks on Ukraine. According to the report, the humanitarian crisis has caused the greatest number of refugees since World War II.
Personal Issue
Several community members showed their solidarity with Ukraine during the prayer service. In a report with WESH, one of those who attended the vigil was former Deltona city commissioner Gary Honaker.
He told the news outlet that Russia's war on Ukraine hit close to home. Honaker became emotional when the pastor called for peace and justice and an end to violence.
He added that he was glad to see people of all faiths showing support for Ukraine and said that the entire conflict was a personal battle for him.
The former commissioner shared that his wife's brother, 84-year-old mother, and other family members are still in Ukraine.
His wife, Ina, told the news outlet that they recently contacted the family. She was glad to report that they were all still safe.
She was thankful, knowing that her family was safe and alive. Ina worried that would one day change since the Russians were on an attack every day.
Ina said that she always prayed that there would be an end to the "heartbreaking" situation.
Prayer for Peace
Leaders of various churches prayed for those caught in the war.
Vice Mayor Vasquez hoped that prayers would turn things around for the better. She told the news outlet that she could not stop watching the news.
The vice mayor prayed that those behind the killings would have a change of heart. Those who attended the service said that they did not have the power to end the war. They knew that gathering together in faith would lift their prayers to God.
The attendees prayed for peace in Ukraine and a change of heart for Russia.
War on Ukraine and the Vatican
In a report with NCR Online, the Vatican has expressed its desire to serve as a mediator between Russia and Ukraine. Over the past four weeks, Russia has ignored the offer.
Pope Francis condemned the invasion, saying it was an "unacceptable armed aggression." He refused to name Russian President Vladimir Putin or Russia as the aggressors.
The Vatican has always been neutral in times of conflict. It has become necessary for protecting Catholics in both Ukraine and Russia. According to the report, neutrality was also seen as an effort to preserve any possible role the Holy See could play negotiating peace talks.
Critics of the Vatican have expressed skepticism of the possibility of Pope Francis being able to secure a peace deal.
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