Whether you're Russian or Ukrainian, or from another land afar, I kindly ask that you do not use this war as a justification for your hatred and malice. We're brothers and sisters in Christ, remember that. Don't let this conflict become a barricade to basic decency and love for your fellow Christian — else you're merely partaking in the work of the devil.

I can comprehend that feelings are high right now, and it's understandable — for some more than others. But let us, as the late Fr. Seraphim Rose wisely said, "not criticise or judge other people and regard everyone else as an angel and justify their mistakes and weaknesses". Rather than rush online to engage in virtual fist-fights, let us spend more time praying and asking God for forgiveness.

May the Lord have mercy on us all!