‘Tell God the truth’: The Ukrainian priest confronting the toll of war
Chaplain Mykola Bagirov, a Greek Catholic priest, serves as a military chaplain in Ukraine's 33rd separate mechanised brigade, providing spiritual and practical support to soldiers amid the ongoing war with Russia. Drawing from his faith's history of resilience under Soviet persecution, he strives to maintain morale and address both emotional and logistical needs of troops near the front lines. Bagirov emphasizes honesty in grappling with grief and anger toward God, advocating open dialogue as part of the healing process.
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‘Tell God the truth’: The Ukrainian priest confronting the toll of warSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxMilitary chaplain Mykola Bagirov prays with Ukrainian military members on April 12.PHOTO: AFPPublished Apr 30, 2026, 02:25 PMUpdated Apr 30, 2026, 02:25 PMKHARKIV, Ukraine – Chaplain Mykola Bagirov placed pieces of consecrated bread on an altar set up behind a camouflage net in a forest in north-eastern Ukraine, several dozen kilometres from the front. Ukrainian soldiers lined up around him, emerging from the rows of surrounding pine trees.“Dear brothers and sisters, the liturgy will last about three hours. If anyone gets hungry and eats a bit of sausage, just make sure I don’t see you!” Rev Bagirov said, nodding at food piled on a table.
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