January 9, 2026 - At the historic Somerset County Courthouse in Somerville, New Jersey, a solemn and meaningful civic moment unfolded as newly elected county officials were formally sworn into office in a ceremony presided over by Governor Philip D. Murphy. Representing the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA, His Eminence Metropolitan Antony participated in this important public gathering, offering not only his prayerful presence, but also delivering the official invocation at the opening of the ceremony.

Metropolitan Antony was joined by the Very Rev. Fr. Vasyl Pasakas, Executive Assistant to the Council of Bishops of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA. Together, they stood among civic leaders, public servants, and representatives of various faith communities, witnessing the beginning of a new chapter of service for those entrusted with leadership by the citizens of Somerset County.

The participation of religious leaders in public and civic events is not merely ceremonial. It is a visible reminder that public service is a sacred responsibility, rooted in accountability before God and the people. By offering prayers and blessings for elected officials, the Church affirms that leadership is not only a matter of policy and administration, but also of conscience, compassion, and moral integrity.

Through his invocation, Metropolitan Antony called upon God’s blessing for Somerset County and for those elected to serve its people, reminding all present that governance must always be guided by wisdom, justice, humility, and love for neighbor.

In a time of global uncertainty and profound challenges, the Church’s prayer extends beyond local borders. As the faithful offer prayers for the communities of Somerset County and throughout the United States of America, they also lift up their ancestral homeland of Ukraine - a nation enduring the trials of war, loss, and suffering.

Metropolitan Antony’s invocation included words of gratitude for the steadfast support shown by the State of New Jersey, especially Governor Murphy and Commissioner Melanie Morano, to the Ukrainian people during the ongoing genocidal invasion of Ukraine. His prayer affirmed the deep bonds of solidarity between the American people and the Ukrainian nation, and the enduring dignity of every human person.

At the opening of the ceremony, Metropolitan Antony offered the following prayer:

O Lord, Almighty God, Source of all wisdom and justice, we gather this afternoon in this historic courthouse – a place where generations have sought fairness, upheld the rule of law and entrusted their community to Your guiding hand.

Be present with us now as we ask Your blessing upon Somerset County and upon all who labor to serve its people.

Today, as Commissioner Melanie Morano, Commissioner Elizabeth Graner, Sheriff Darin Russo, and Surrogate Tina Jalloh prepare to take their solemn oaths of office, we ask You to bless them abundantly. Grant them clarity of mind, steadiness of purpose and compassion of heart. Strengthen them to act with integrity, humility, and courage as they serve the common good.

We pray especially for Commissioners Morano and Graner, entrusted with leadership and vision for this county. Grant them wisdom in decision-making, unity in purpose and a spirit always attentive to the needs of every community they serve.

Bless Sheriff Russo, and all who serve in law enforcement under his care. Guide them toward justice that is firm yet merciful, and grant them protection, discernment, and respect for the dignity of every human life.

Bless Surrogate Jalloh, whose office serves families at moments of transition and vulnerability. Grant her compassion, patience and the ability to bring clarity and peace to those entrusted to her care.

Lord, bless also the families, colleagues, and supporters who stand with these public servants, sharing in the weight of responsibility that public service entails.

We give thanks for the presence and leadership of Governor Philip D. Murphy, and for his commitment to the well-being of all the people of New Jersey.

On behalf of the faithful of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA and the Ukrainian community of New Jersey, we express sincere gratitude, O Lord, for the steadfast support shown to the Ukrainian community - especially by Governor Murphy and Commissioner Morano - and to the many people in public service - during the ongoing genocidal invasion of Ukraine. Their solidarity and moral clarity have brought comfort to many and affirmed the enduring dignity of the human person.

As these officials now renew their oaths, bless the work that begins anew this day. May their service bring peace where there is conflict, fairness where there is injustice and hope where there is uncertainty. May this courthouse remain always a place where truth prevails and justice is served.

Bless Somerset County - its people, its families, its institutions, and all who call it home. Inspire us all to live with respect, responsibility and love for our neighbor.

For You are the God of peace and the Giver of every good gift, and to You we offer glory and thanksgiving, now and forever. Amen.

As the newly sworn-in officials begin their term of service, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA offers its continued prayers for their work. May the Lord guide them in their responsibilities, grant them wisdom in governance, and bless their efforts for the good of all whom they serve.

Through such participation, the Church continues her mission to be present in the life of society - praying, blessing, and reminding all that true leadership is always grounded in service, love for neighbor, and responsibility before God.