On February 24, marking the second anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, prayers for Ukraine and its people were held in over 50 countries worldwide. Together, these events are set to establish a world record for the “Largest Gathering of People United in Prayer for Ukraine.”
The initiator and organizer of this record-setting event is Yulia Gershun, the founder of the international organization “PEACE Committee of Ukraine,” a volunteer, public figure, and Mrs. Universe. The global marathon began at 5 a.m. Kyiv time, kicking off in New York. The Ukrainian choir “DUMKA,” led by Vasyl Hrechynskyi, an Honored Artist of Ukraine, performed prayers for Ukraine.
A live teleconference connected countries across all continents, emphasizing the crucial need to support, promote, and preserve Ukrainian culture worldwide, now more than ever.
The central location for the record was the capital of Ukraine, where diplomats, politicians, ministers, business representatives, singers, military personnel, volunteers, and others gathered at the St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery in Kyiv to join the global prayer for Ukraine.
The event was hosted by Ukrainian actor Serhiy Komarovskyi and Kyiv24 TV presenter Anastasia Krasnytska.
The ceremony began with a moment of silence to honor all the defenders who gave their lives for Ukraine. This was followed by the national anthem. Acting Minister of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine, Rostyslav Karandieiev, addressed the attendees with a welcoming speech.
Artists and volunteers, including Tonya Matvienko, Anzhelika Rudnytska, and Sofiia Yehorova, also spoke to those present. Tonya Matvienko performed the song “Juice of the Earth,” celebrating the roots and strength of the Ukrainian nation.
Following the welcoming speeches, a global online marathon of messages and prayers was broadcast live from 50 countries and various regions of Ukraine. The telethon was moderated by Hanna Krysiuk, General Director of the World Record Book and head of the International Headquarters for Helping Ukrainians. Heartfelt and meaningful messages from every corner of the world were shared, showcasing global solidarity with Ukraine.
One of the highlights was a joint prayer performance from Kyiv: “O Great and Only God, Protect Ukraine,” involving the Ukrainian National Choir named after H. Veryovka, children from the “PARADISE” creative association, and all participants.
Even after the telethon ended, Ukrainian processions continued in many countries, with prayers for Ukraine ongoing throughout the day around the globe.
The results of this united prayer initiative, including the potential world record, will be announced on February 28 at 12:00 p.m., with the participation of the initiators, organizers, and participants of the prayer event.
The World Record Book’s management expressed gratitude to everyone who joined in prayer for Ukraine, confident that our unity will be heard by the Almighty. Together towards victory!
