Metropolitan Epiphanius presented a gift to the GUR chaplain Kholodov (photo).

The head of the Orthodox Church, Metropolitan Epiphanius, awarded the chaplain of the GUR of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, Kostiantyn Kholodov, the Order of Saint Archangel Michael and presented him with a personal cross of the head.

«The chaplains of the Main Intelligence Directorate visited the metropolitan residence in Kyiv, where they met with the blessed Metropolitan of Kyiv and all Ukraine, Epiphanius. The meeting was attended by the head of the Military Chaplaincy Service of the GUR of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, Kostiantyn Kholodov, with his wife, as well as chaplains Pavlo Osnovenko and Volodymyr Romanishin», - the statement says.

The Metropolitan and the chaplains discussed issues of pastoral care for military personnel, especially military intelligence officers, and the development of military chaplaincy in times of war.

«Our task is to be close to those on the front line. We must support the fighters not only with words but also with daily presence, prayer, and live human communication», - emphasized Kostiantyn Kholodov during the meeting.

The blessed Metropolitan Epiphanius congratulated Kostiantyn Kholodov on his 50th anniversary. In gratitude for his service and support for the soldiers, he awarded Father Kostiantyn with the Order of Saint Archangel Michael of the II degree and presented him with a personal cross of the head.

Earlier, the head of the GUR of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, presented the Primate of the Orthodox Church, Metropolitan Epiphanius, with an icon of «The Holy Trinity» from the 19th century.

Analysis:

Ukrainian chaplain Kostiantyn Kholodov was awarded an order and presented with a personal cross of the Primate of the Orthodox Church, Metropolitan Epiphanius. This indicates a high appreciation of his service and support for soldiers. The meeting between the Metropolitan and the chaplain was aimed at discussing pastoral care issues and the development of military chaplaincy. Kostiantyn Kholodov emphasized the importance of being close to the fighters on the front line and supporting them not only with words but also with actions. The awarding of Father Kostiantyn with the order and the personal cross reflects the gratitude of the Orthodox Church for his service and dedication.