Ukraine and Church’s pursuit of peace as Diocese of York parishes maximise their online presence and influence – The Yorkshire Post says

THE ARCHBISHOP of York’s candid view that the West is guilty of taking “peace for granted” is cause for further reflection as the world watches the unfolding bloodshed in Ukraine with growing horror.
By YP Comment
Published 27th Feb 2022, 05:55 BST
Ukrainians hold a protest against the Russian invasion of Ukraine outside Downing Street.Ukrainians hold a protest against the Russian invasion of Ukraine outside Downing Street.
Ukrainians hold a protest against the Russian invasion of Ukraine outside Downing Street.

The Most Reverend Stephen Cottrell’s fears, outlined with great eloquence in the House of Lords, are also the precursor to a series of vigils, and events, being held by the Church of England to help parishioners demonstrate their solidarity with Ukraine.

Why is Russia invading Ukraine? Simple explanation of 2022 conflict, Putin’s Nato and Crimea history - and map

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

And, to those who might belittle the CoE at this time, they might well reflect on the transformation that is taking place in parishes across Yorkshire – including Ainsty to the west of York – since the Covid pandemic.

Members of the public wear a Ukrainian flag outside 10 Downing Street in London, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.Members of the public wear a Ukrainian flag outside 10 Downing Street in London, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Members of the public wear a Ukrainian flag outside 10 Downing Street in London, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

What is NATO? What does N.A.T.O. stand for, member states, map of countries - are Ukraine and Russia involved?

For, by adapting so adeptly to lockdown and combining traditional church services with online prayer sessions, Ainsty has seen its congregation grow by around by 20 per cent – an increase that many businesses would welcome – and has seen its inspiring example praised by, amongst others, Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury.

After all, resisting societal change is invariably futile and the CoE’s enlightened approach to Covid’s wider legacy merits respect. Its senior archbishops know, from decades of pastoral work, that the Church is at its strongest, and most effective, when it has the support of local parishoners and also people of differing religions.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

But they also appreciate that an online presence can help sustain the faith of those unable to attend church – or people in strife-torn countries, like Ukraine, who will draw some comfort from the prayers, and support, of the wider world as they face their darkest hour.

The Most Reverend Stephen Cottrell is the Archbishop of York.The Most Reverend Stephen Cottrell is the Archbishop of York.
The Most Reverend Stephen Cottrell is the Archbishop of York.

Support The Yorkshire Post and become a subscriber today. Your subscription will help us to continue to bring quality news to the people of Yorkshire. In return, you’ll see fewer ads on site, get free access to our app, receive exclusive members-only offers and access to all premium content and columns. Click here to subscribe.

Related topics:UkraineYorkshire Post

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.