On 24 February 2026, an ecumenical service and concert marking the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine took place at the Bern Minster. The event was organized by the community of Christian churches of Switzerland in cooperation with the Embassy of Ukraine in Switzerland.

Representatives of various Christian denominations, members of the diplomatic corps, the Ukrainian community, and friends of Ukraine joined in common prayer. The service was co-celebrated by Pastor Jürg Brechbühl, Pastor Rita Famos, Bishop Felix Gmür, Pastor Daniel Conrad, and Pastor Judith Pörksen-Roder. Musical accompaniment was provided by the Chamber Orchestra from Bakhmut under the direction of Oleksandr Starozhylov, with the support of the Ukrainian Cultural Center “Prostir” headed by friend of Ukraine Urban Frei.

The Ambassador of Ukraine to Switzerland, Iryna Venediktova, addressed those present. In her remarks, she emphasized the profound symbolism of Psalm 88, read during the service:

“Psalm 88 gives voice to human pain — the pain that millions of Ukrainians are experiencing today, yet they carry it with faith and hope. Ukraine seeks peace. But a just peace is not silence in the face of violence. It is freedom, security, and the triumph of law over force.”

Bern became a place of shared prayer, solidarity, and hope. We express our sincere gratitude to Switzerland and all partners for supporting Ukraine in its struggle for freedom, dignity, and a just peace.

Special thanks are extended to the President of the Government of the Canton of Bern, Christoph Neuhaus, and the Vice Mayor of the City of Bern, Alec von Graffenried, for their presence at the event and their support for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people.