St. Michael’s Ukrainian Catholic Church in Yonkers held a Liturgy and Prayer for Peace Reception on Sunday in honor of the 34th anniversary of Ukraine's independence.

Dozens gathered to honor and remember those impacted by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 that triggered a full-scale war.

Sunday marked the day of Ukraine's proclamation of independence from the Soviet Union, which was signed in 1991.

Bishop Paul Khomnysky estimates that about half of Sunday's parishioners were born in Ukraine. He says many have come here to seek refuge.

"We're going to be praying for Ukraine as we do every Sunday, but especially for an end to the war and especially for a just peace in Ukraine...because there can't be any just peace in Ukraine if there's no justice," said Bishop Khomnysky.

Yonkers City Hall will have a flag raising on Monday at 4 p.m. to celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day.