Public invited to vigil in support of Ukraine
A vigil is to be held in Edinburgh’s George Square for the public to show solidarity with all those affected by the war in Ukraine.
Organised by the University's Chaplaincy, the peaceful outdoor gathering will take place on Thursday 7 April at 5pm.
Prayers and messages of hope will be shared, led by Reverend Dr Harriet Harris.
Peaceful gathering
The event marks the beginning of the Chaplaincy’s ‘Light Up Our Hearts for Ukraine’ campaign, when people will be encouraged to show solidarity in any way they can.
This includes sowing sunflower seeds, lighting a candle in their window or attending further events.
Those wanting to show support online are invited to share a colourful image designed by fourth-year English Literature student Marta Christiansen.
Within the first evening of the campaign website going live, 66 sunflowers were marked on the interactive map to show events taking place around the world.
Previous initiative
This is the second initiative of this kind to be organised by the University’s Chaplaincy.
In 2016, events were organised to encourage communities to come together for those affected by the war in Syria.
When we gathered and lit candles in our windows for Aleppo, these simple acts increased the morale of those in Syria, and helped refugees in Scotland to feel appreciated and welcomed. This we can do again for Ukraine. I hope people in Edinburgh join us on Thursday for this display of solidarity and to share messages of peace and hope. This is the first of a string of events and activities that people can participate in – both in person and online – to unite in empathy and let the light of hope reach Ukraine.
Related links
Find out more about the Chaplaincy’s Light Up Our Hearts for Ukraine campaign