A Heartfelt Thank You from the Ukrainians in Northern Ireland Community

On Thursday, 25 June 2026, a truly historic and deeply moving event took place at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh. We gathered for the unveiling and dedication of the sacred Ukrainian icon “The Saviour”.

We would like to express our profound gratitude to The Dean of Armagh, the Very Revd Shane Forster, and the entire Cathedral chapter for opening their hearts and the doors of this magnificent historic space to our community. Knowing that “The Saviour” has now found its permanent home here fills us with immense pride and comfort.

A special thank you also goes to the Armagh Robinson Library for your continued support of Ukraine, for believing in the power of culture, and for creating a space for dialogue, remembrance, and solidarity.

For us Ukrainians, this means far more than simply placing a work of art in a cathedral. Living far from home, it is deeply comforting to know that our story is being heard, our culture is valued, and the suffering of our country has not been forgotten. The fact that an icon painted on an ammunition box from the front line has found its permanent place in the Cathedral is a powerful symbol that even from the instruments of war can come faith, hope, and life.

We would also like to remind everyone that thanks to the donations raised during the “Icons on Ammo Boxes” exhibition, together with other fundraising efforts and generous contributions, an ambulance has been purchased. It will soon be on its way to Ukraine, where it will help save the lives of both civilians and those defending our country.

Thank you to everyone who donated, supported, organised, attended the dedication service, or simply chose not to look away. Your kindness has a real impact. It provides not only practical help, but also hope.

Together, we continue to prove that compassion knows no borders, and that kindness will always be stronger than war.
#icons_on_ammo_boxes

(* With the support of the Consulate of Ukraine in Edinburgh and the Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Northern Ireland.)