ELMIRA HEIGHTS, N.Y. (WENY) -- Today marks the 31st anniversary of Ukraine's independence. The people of Elmira Heights gathered together at Sr. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church to show their support. 

Father Teodor B. Czabala, Jr. said it is important to stand with Ukraine while Russia wages war on the country’s territory. He said the Ukrainian's independence is in jeopardy, once again.  

Today marks the 31st anniversary of Ukraine's restored independence that took place on August 24th, 1991. Father Czabala said, this year, it is especially important to celebrate. American citizens give a voice to this country's continued support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, he said.  

“Ukraine has been independent a number of times,” he said. “This last renewed independence is right after the fall of the Soviet Union...so, it's been 31 years since the fall of the Soviet Union.” 

 Father Czabala said it is important to note that today marks the six-month Russian invasion of Ukraine. 

“This year, it's especially poignant because the inheritors of the Soviet Union...the Russians...have decided to reincorporate to restart their empire again,” he said.  

During the ceremony, people prayed and sang Ukraine and the United States' national anthems. The people of Elmira Heights raised Ukraine's national flag to pay their respects the people of Ukraine. 

“Raising the flag shows independence, shows the overcoming of adversaries because, now, we are the ones in charge,” he said. “We profess that Ukraine is still active, Ukrainians in this community are still important and Ukrainian spirit is still alive.” 

Father Czabala said the number one way to show support is to pray. He asked everyone to keep Ukraine in their prayers. 

For more information about how you can help the people of Ukraine, you can contact St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church. Click this link for contact information.