The details: On Sunday afternoon, Ipswich Minster hosted the Vigil for Ukraine – a service of lament, prayer, solidarity, resilience and unity, combining traditional prayers and singing in both English and Ukrainian.
What they're saying: Alan Cutting, head of the Ukraine Response for Together for Ipswich, organised the Ipswich vigil. He said: "Ultimately, I would say it's a calling. I feel some sort of mission, really. I've been many, many times to Ukraine. I love all the former Soviet countries, actually. And love to see peace and reconciliation — and those are things that motivate me."
Ukrainian community representative and co-organiser Nataliya Lawrence said the service gave attendees a sense of unity. "At a time when Ukrainians are serving as a shield against evil, suffering daily attacks in freezing conditions and power cuts, this solidarity provides the comfort and courage needed to keep pressing toward a future of peace."
The Revd Pippa Scott, speaking at Ipswich Minster, said it was "such a privilege to be able to work with Ukrainian brothers and sisters," adding that she hoped the invasion would soon come to an end and such events would no longer be needed.
The bottom line: Four years since Russia's invasion, Suffolk's Ukrainian community and their local supporters continue to stand together – united by a shared hope for an end to the conflict.
