A SECOND prayer vigil for Ukraine will be held at Bradford Cathedral from 6pm to 7pm on Friday, February 24.

The hour-long service will include lament for the impact of the war, prayer for peace in Ukraine and a celebration of Ukrainian identity.

The service will include contributions from refugees and other members of the Ukrainian community in Bradford including the Bradford-based Ukrainian choirs Fialka and Dibrova.

Judith Cummins, MP for Bradford South, the Lord Mayor of Bradford and the Rt Revd Dr Toby Howarth, Bishop of Bradford, will be in attendance. 

The service, held in conjunction with the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain (AUGB), will feature stories and music from Ukraine, along with Bible readings, the Lord’s Prayer sung in Ukrainian, and the opportunity to light candles.

Representatives of different faiths will be invited to stand in solidarity with Ukrainians and all those suffering from war and occupation.

All are welcome to come to Bradford Cathedral for the service, or it can be streamed live online via the Bradford Cathedral YouTube channel or Facebook page. The service will also be available to watch back after the event. 

Orysia Chymera, chair of the Bradford branch of the Association of Ukrainians, said: “Russia's barbaric actions have created the largest humanitarian crisis in Europe since WWII and has created a threat to peace in the whole of Europe.

“As we mark 365 days since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, we would like to thank the UK government and the British people for their strong support for Ukraine and displaced Ukrainians.

“We look forward to a just peace and would like to express our thanks to everyone for showing solidarity with the people of Ukraine by attending this vigil.”

The Rt Revd Howarth said: “Russian’s brutal invasion of Ukraine has caused misery not only for Ukrainians but has led to immense hardship for many others across the world.

“It is important that we mark this anniversary standing together as communities across Bradford in solidarity with all those who suffer from war and occupation. Please join us.”

Those looking to attend are invited to sign up here bradfordcathedral.churchsuite.com/events/sqrfxxel.