Sharing lament while holding on to hope

On the third anniversary of the beginning of the war in Ukraine, members of the Ukrainian community and Westport Welcomes Ukraine gathered in Westport, first at the Octagon, for a peaceful march down James Street and in to St Mary's Church for a Service of Prayer and Remembrance. 

The service was notable for its all-age participation, prayers (translated from English to Ukrainian), poetry recitation, and music and song, including hauntingly beautiful pieces by Ensemble Nezlamni ('Unbreakable'). 

Twenty candles were lit by Fr John Kenny (St Mary's) and Revd Suzanne Cousins (Holy Trinity Westport) and placed by representatives on the sanctuary steps. The children also placed paper cranes in the Ukrainian colours (yellow and blue) on the steps. 

After the service the Castle Court Hotel hosted a small reception, with tea/coffee and desert.


Sharing lament while holding on to hope and praying for peace, with Ukrainian friends in Westport, on Sunday 23rd February, with Fr John Kenny and Westport Welcomes Ukraine








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