Four Years After The Invasion, Ukrainian Families and Friends Get Together In Hope

Published on: 3 Mar, 2026
Updated on: 5 Mar, 2026

Children were among those taking part in the ceremony of hope

By David Reading

Ukrainian families who moved to Guildford after Russia’s full-scale invasion of their country were among those people who attended a ceremony of hope at Christ Church in Waterden Road, Guildford.

Ex- Mayor Dennis Booth with his wife Mary. Next to her is Inna Haitan and on the far right Anna Zednyk, co-founder of The Ukrainian School Surrey

More than 100 people attended the event, organised by the Ukrainian School Surrey and Ukrainian folk ensemble Syla Rodu.

The ceremony, marking four years since the beginning of the invasion, was attended not only by Ukrainian people but also by host families, friends and supporters of the Ukrainian community in Guildford.

It was an evening of prayer, song and hope for peace and an opportunity to remember those people who have died in the war. The event was also an expression of solidarity with those who continue to defend their homeland.

Inna Haitan, Co-Founder of The Ukrainian School in Surrey said, “It was an evening filled with many different emotions. There was deep sadness that the war has lasted so long, and pain for the lives lost.

At the same time, there was warmth and even joy in being able to gather together, to support one another and to feel the strength of our unity. Moments like this remind us how important community is.

“For many of us, this date is not just a line in history. It is a personal wound. Four years ago, our lives changed forever. That is why gatherings like this are not only about remembrance, but about healing.

When we pray together, sing together, and stand side by side, we remind ourselves that we are not alone. Even far from home, Ukraine lives in our hearts – in our language, in our songs, in our children. And as long as we stay united, there is hope.”

Vicky Grinter, representing Guildford and Waverley Borough Councils spoke at the event. She said, “We stand in remembrance, we stand in solidarity, and we stand with Ukraine today and for as long as it takes.”

Inna Haitan added: “We were honoured to have Vicky Grinter at our event. We are sincerely grateful for the continued support of Guildford Borough Council and Waverley Borough Council, as well as The Ukrainian School Surrey and the entire Ukrainian community.

“And many thanks to the former Mayor of Guildford, Dennis Booth, and his wife for attending and for being so supportive to the Ukrainians in Guildford and the surrounding areas.”