Official Report 973KB pdf
Good afternoon. The first item of business is time for reflection. Our time for reflection leader today is the Very Rev Dr Andriy Chornenko, vicar for Scotland of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of the Holy Family of London.
Good afternoon, Presiding Officer and members of the Scottish Parliament. Thank you for allowing me to share a few moments of reflection with you today.
Human history, as well as our personal lives, is often marked by moments of darkness—times of fear, loss and struggle. Despite that, across faiths and cultures, we find the same conviction: light has the power to overcome darkness. Even a single flame can break through the heaviest night.
In the Christian tradition, light is a symbol of hope, guidance and renewal. Jesus Christ, the light of the world, said:
“Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness”.
Other religions also speak of light as wisdom, compassion and truth. This reminds us that, even in the most difficult times, there is a way forward.
For me, as a Ukrainian, that image carries special meaning. My people face the darkness of war, destruction and displacement, yet, even in such pain, the light of courage, solidarity and faith has not been extinguished. Families, communities and entire cities continue to choose life over despair.
I would like to take this opportunity to express deep gratitude to Scotland and to the people of this land. Your welcome to Ukrainian families, your compassion for the displaced and your unwavering support in the face of injustice are rays of light that reach far beyond these shores. They remind us that humanity is bound together, and that when one nation suffers, others can carry part of its burden.
Each of you, as leaders, carries such a light. At times, it may seem small compared with the vastness of the challenges that are before us, but its impact is real: a word of encouragement; a just decision; a compassionate gesture.
In winter, we notice how darkness arrives quickly. We also notice the stars, the lights along our streets and the warmth of community. In the same way, it is in times of trial that faith, hope and love shine most brightly.
May we each nurture that light—within ourselves, in our communities and across nations. May it guide Scotland, Ukraine and our world toward justice, peace and unity.
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