In the midst of chaos and uncertainty, a rocket struck and windows shattered, roofs vanished, yet miraculously, no one was harmed. This is just one of the many harrowing experiences shared by Oleksandr Hrinchuk, a soldier from Kyiv, as he reflects on the third anniversary of the full-scale war in Ukraine.
“God Wants Me to Trust Him More”
Oleksandr Hrinchuk, a devout Catholic, finds solace in God’s protection during challenging moments, even when the reasons behind these trials remain unclear. “I see God wants me to trust Him more,” he admits, highlighting the importance of faith in times of turmoil.
Despite facing the horrors of war, Hrinchuk observes that even non-religious soldiers find themselves seeking comfort in prayer or religious gestures. “Sometimes, we talk about faith and the Church,” he shares, acknowledging the diverse perspectives on spirituality within the military.
From Stability to Uncertainty
Recalling his mobilization into the army in June 2024, Hrinchuk recounts the challenges of being deployed to Kursk and the emotional toll of being away from Mass. “Prayer and the Word of God gave me strength, even in the darkest moments,” he confesses, grateful for the support of those who pray for him.
“Are There No Atheists in War?”
In the crucible of war, Hrinchuk reflects on the saying that “there are no atheists in war,” noting the innate inclination towards faith in times of peril. “I am learning to trust God. His plan is greater than mine,” he affirms, highlighting the transformative power of faith in the midst of conflict.
As Ukraine continues to grapple with the devastating impact of war, stories like Oleksandr Hrinchuk’s serve as a poignant reminder of the resilience and faith that endure even in the darkest of times.
