Ukraine Prayer Vigil held

Members of the public, civic leaders, and the Ukrainian community gathered at Leicester Cathedral on Tuesday 24 February 2026 for a special Prayer Vigil on the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion.

The gathering began in Jubilee Square at 6.15pm, where members of the Ukrainian community assembled before walking together to Cathedral Gardens. Led by voices young and old, the group sang the Ukrainian national anthem and the traditional song Oy u Luzhi before entering the Cathedral.

Among those present were the Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Bo Prychidnyj (Chair of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain (AUGB) Leicester branch), the Bishop of Leicester, and the Dean of Leicester. Children from the Ukrainian School of Leicester and soprano Maria Hlushchak provided musical contributions throughout the evening.

Dean Karen welcomed attendees with an opening reflection and prayer. Performances followed from the Ukrainian School children and the Pavlyky family, whose father accompanied his children on guitar.

A short address by Wol Wowczuk, Deputy Chair, Leicester Ukrainian Community, was followed by a video featuring Ukrainian schoolchildren speaking about life in Britain, their memories of home, and their hopes for peace.

The vigil concluded with a closing prayer from Bishop Martyn. Together with Wol Wowczuk, he lit a large Candle for Peace at the altar. Attendees were then invited to light individual candles, pausing for personal reflection and remembrance of family and friends affected by the war.

Image from Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain (AUGB) Leicester branch