The Vernon Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

Image Credit: orthodox-world.org

Vernon residents are rallying to support Ukraine this weekend outside of a Vernon church.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine, a democratic country, has fuelled fears of a wider war in Europe and triggered worldwide efforts to make Russia stop. Europe is facing a massive new migration crisis because of the invasion.

A rally for Ukraine will be held tomorrow, Feb. 26 at 4 p.m. at the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, said pastor Chad Pawlyshyn. The rally will be held outside of the church, followed by a prayer for Ukraine and regular service that is open to the public.

READ MORE: Ukraine's capital under threat as Russia presses invasion

“It’s something that many of our Ukrainian Orthodox (churches) across the country have been doing since Tuesday evening, having these prayer services, if not daily, whenever is possible,” he said.

“It’s our one-for-sure way to show our support through prayer but talking to a few of my parishioners, who have family in Ukraine as well, they were asking what we could do as a community.”

The hope is to hold prayers for Ukraine regularly “throughout this difficult time.” Pawlyshyn is also a pastor at Ukrainian Orthodox churches in Kamloops and Kelowna and prayers will be held in those communities as well. 

Yesterday in Kelowna, roughly 30 residents gathered outside of city hall to warn residents that the repercussions of Russia’s invasion on Ukraine will be felt here in the Okanagan. Canadians can expect rising gas prices as a result of the war.

A rally for Ukraine has also been planned for Saturday in Kamloops, at the Riverside Park's "Hope" sign at 3 p.m. People are encouraged to wear blue and yellow, and hold signs that say “Stand with Ukraine.”

READ MORE: Rally in Kelowna to show solidarity with people of Ukraine

Countries around the world have condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin’s actions and have imposed sanctions on the country. Canada has also sanctioned Russian elites and targeted two of its banks.

It is also providing additional troops to neighbouring NATO countries.

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