We, the members of the Council of Christian Churches of Ukraine, are closely following the newly unfolding issue of the need for mutual and proper Christian commemoration of the victims of the Ukrainian-Polish armed conflict during World War II. We welcome the recent statement by the leadership of the Ukrainian Institute of National Remembrance on the initiative to organize search and exhumation work for Polish graves in the Rivne region. The expressed intentions align with the content and spirit of the broad public sentiment in Ukraine, based on Christian principles and the foundations of national policy in this area.

It has been repeatedly proven that Ukraine, a victim of many historical crimes and injustices, deeply shares the pain of other nations' memories and consistently takes a leading role in healing such wounds. The issue of proper commemoration of the victims is not up for debate, as it is in line with our national and spiritual tradition.

We call on our government to support the noble intentions of the Ukrainian Institute of National Remembrance and to find a way to organize such qualified work despite all wartime challenges. Despite the bloody war of the Russian Federation, and perhaps even contrary to it, Ukrainians are able to respond with dignity to the request of our Polish friends during these difficult times.

Let us help and forgive each other - this fundamental principle remains an inviolable covenant of the great spiritual leaders of Ukrainians and Poles. In the spirit of this covenant, we call on our Polish brethren to show full reciprocity in the proper commemoration of Ukrainian memorial sites in Poland and the restoration of those memorial signs that have been damaged.

We ask that no political competition be allowed in this area. Ultimatums, stubbornness, and recklessness will only serve the evil aimed at both our nations. Let us act to protect each other.

Let us do everything possible and within the power of each of us to ensure that the victims of this bloody, inhuman, anti-Christian confrontation of 80 years ago can convincingly say to us Never again. And we, now living, will perceive this command in our conscience as a fundamental call to action, having previously cleansed our conscience with a genuine Christian act of forgiveness, asking: Forgive us and we forgive you. Amen! 

October 4, 2024