Called to Freedom: A Christian Reflection on Ukraine’s Independence

Головна Блог Called to Freedom: A Christian Reflection on Ukraine’s Independence

Independence is one of the most cherished values of humanity. Yet, true independence only makes sense when we understand what we are living for. C. S. Lewis once said, “You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.”

For us, as Christians, meaning is found in truth, in freedom, and in life with God. As Jesus taught, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).

Thirty-four years ago, on August 24, 1991, Ukraine declared its independence. That historic decision was overwhelmingly affirmed by more than 90% of the population in a national referendum later that year. At that moment, Ukraine became independent in a legal sense. But in 2022, as Russia launched its full-scale invasion, the nation began to defend its independence in the most profound and costly way—through war, through sacrifice, through the fight to remain who we truly are.

The Many Faces of Independence

Independence is not a solitary achievement. It is a collective work — the shared effort of many hands and hearts:

Soldiers defend the nation on the frontlines.
Doctors save lives in hospitals
Volunteers mobilize resources and bring hope to the displaced and vulnerable.
Young people design new technologies and projects that shape Ukraine’s future.

And what is the role of the Church in this struggle?

We pray without ceasing for Ukraine.
We support the wounded, the weary, and the grieving.
We raise a voice of truth when the world risks growing tired of listening.
We serve every person, regardless of background, status, or belief.

Because in service, we embody the very essence of freedom. Scripture reminds us:

“Blessed are the people of whom this is true; blessed are the people whose God is the Lord”

Psalm 144:15

Spiritual Freedom: The Deeper Foundation

This year, Ukraine does not simply mark its 34th Independence Day. We celebrate something far deeper: the resilience of the human spirit, the faith that sustains us, and the love that enables us to endure even the darkest of nights.

True freedom is not just political or territorial. It is spiritual. It is found in the knowledge that our ultimate independence is grounded not only in the defense of our borders but in the eternal kingdom of God, where justice, truth, and love reign.

As a seminary, we are committed to preparing leaders who understand this calling — leaders who can serve with courage, wisdom, and compassion in a time when freedom itself is under threat. We believe that nurturing such leaders is our shared responsibility before God, before the Church, and before the people of Ukraine.

May our freedom always be filled with meaning — the meaning we find in Christ.