Although the war in Ukraine no longer dominates the headlines, news coverage continues to highlight destruction, uncertainty and an ongoing conflict with no clear end in sight. However, what is often overlooked is the way faith has taken shape across the country.
In the midst of the turmoil, the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God has completed the first phase of construction of the Cathedral of Faith in Ukraine. Situated in Kyiv, the future cathedral will be able to accommodate more than 1,200 people and already stands as a powerful symbol of hope.
According to Bishop Tiago Casagrande, who oversees the work of the Universal Church in Ukraine, the decision to build a cathedral of this scale was driven by the urgent spiritual and humanitarian needs of the population. “In the face of chaos, the construction of the cathedral is necessary,” he explained. “Today, more than ever, spiritual support and social work are essential.”
More than just a place of prayer, the Cathedral of Faith represents a clear and courageous stance during the war. While many individuals and organisations chose to leave the country or suspend investments due to uncertainty, the Church decided to move forward.
For local residents, the cathedral is a visible expression of Christian faith in action. Its progress sends a strong message: Ukrainians are not alone. They have spiritual, emotional and practical support at a crucial moment in the country’s history.
So far, the Universal Church has completed the first phase of construction and delivered key structures necessary for the cathedral’s operation. These include an auxiliary hall, entrance hall, restrooms and an industrial kitchen.
This progress has come despite significant obstacles caused by the conflict, such as bureaucratic delays, financial pressures and a shortage of labour due to the recruitment of many men being called into military service. Even so, the work has continued steadily.
“Humanly speaking, it would be impossible,” Bishop Tiago reflected. “But God is the God of the impossible. He has been providing the necessary resources through people willing to be used.”
Since the completion of this first phase, the cathedral has already begun fulfilling an important social role. The industrial kitchen allows meals to be prepared for those in need, and the space supports a range of social initiatives.
The Universal Church currently distributes food, clothing and toys on site, as well as offering medical and legal assistance to refugees and displaced people from occupied or conflict-affected areas, many of whom are experiencing the harsh realities of the humanitarian crisis.
Future phases of the project will see the cathedral completed in full. Plans include the main sanctuary, a baptistery, the Children’s Biblical Centre (CBC), a Youth Centre for the Victory Youth Group (VYG), the Unisocial Centre, as well as offices and media studios. With these facilities in place, the Church aims to expand both its evangelistic and social outreach, reaching thousands of people across Ukraine and strengthening its mission through media and community initiatives.
According to Bishop Tiago, the impact of the project is already visible, even before completion. Spiritually, it strengthens faith and creates a sense of belonging. Socially, it lifts the morale of a population that recognises the significance of such an investment during a time of hardship.
“The cathedral is like a garden growing in the desert,” he said. “In the middle of war, people can see faith becoming real and experience the peace that only the Lord Jesus can give.”
Once completed, the Cathedral of Faith is expected to continue serving thousands of Ukrainians, offering both spiritual guidance and practical support.
If you or someone you know have been affected by the war in Ukraine, support is available. The Universal Church in Ukraine currently operates from Tarasivska Street, No. 44, in central Kyiv (Postcode 01033). The future Cathedral of Faith is under construction at Vishnyakovska Street, No. 6/8, near the Kharkivska metro station.
For those in the UK who may be seeking spiritual support, you are warmly invited to visit our Cathedral of Miracles at 232 Seven Sisters Road, Finsbury Park, London, N4 3NX.
