Press Releases
Unveiling and Dedication of Ukrainian icon in St Patrick’s Cathedral
In the autumn of last year, Armagh Robinson Library hosted an exhibition of Ukrainian Icons, which had been painted by professional artists in Ukraine, using the bases of empty ammunition boxes from the front line. The artists, Sonya Atlantova and Oleksandr Klymenko, believe that the icons painted on these fragments of ammunition boxes are silent yet eloquent witnesses of the war.
Following the exhibition in October, local people gave donations to raise the funds to buy one of the icons. Their donations were used for humanitarian aid in Ukraine. The icon titled ‘The Saviour’ has been framed and a place found for it in St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral, Armagh. Ukrainian families who live in County Armagh and who have taken part in other projects in Armagh Robinson Library recently attended the unveiling and dedicating of the icon.
One Ukrainian mother Inna Shynkevick put it like this: “As a Ukrainian mother living far from home, I am deeply grateful for this gesture of kindness and solidarity. This icon carries both the pain and the hope of Ukraine. Created on an ammunition box from the front line, it is a powerful reminder that even in the midst of war, something life–giving can emerge from the instruments of death. What was once made for destruction has been transformed into a symbol of faith, hope, and humanity.
“Knowing that it has found a permanent home here means a great deal to me. It tells me that our story has been heard, that our culture is valued, and that compassion can build bridges between people. This icon is a reminder that darkness does not have the final word. Even from the reality of war, people can choose love over hatred, life over death, and hope over despair. Thank you for helping keep that hope alive.”
Another mother, Maryna Opanasenko, said: “This icon is a beautiful bridge between Ukraine and our new home here in Northern Ireland. Coming to the Cathedral and seeing ‘The Saviour’ gives us a profound sense of comfort and peace. It is a quiet reminder of our homeland and a powerful testament to the kindness of the local community who have supported us and our families since we arrived.”
The Dean of Armagh, the Very Revd Shane Forster, said, “The Hill of Armagh has borne witness to over fifteen hundred years of global history, and sadly war and conflict have, at an international and local level, continuously been part of the story. At every juncture, prayers for peace, healing and reconciliation have been offered by the people of God in this place. We are very pleased that the icon will find a permanent home in the Cathedral. It is a reminder of the tragedy of war, but also of the faith and resilience of people, alongside the reassurance that Christ is present in our times of joy and in times of sorrow for he is the Prince of Peace.”