On the last day of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Pope Francis met with members of the Pan-Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations. The Pope expressed his solidarity once again with the Ukrainian people and assured them of his prayers.
POPE FRANCIS
Have no doubt: I pray for you.
I carry you in my heart and ask God to have mercy on this brave people.
During the meeting, the group expressed their hope for a future papal visit to Ukraine.
ABP. SVIATOSLAV SHEVCHUK
Major Archbishop of Kyiv-Halyč
Of course, we renewed our invitation to the Holy Father to visit us in Ukraine. This is a renewal of the invitation we made before. We know that the Holy Father is following the developments of the situation in Ukraine and he's looking for a good time to come.
Not only are Catholics waiting for him but all Ukrainians are awaiting his visit.
During a press conference in Rome, some religious representatives discussed the joint efforts of different faith leaders from around the world in opposing the Russian invasion and promoting a victory of truth.
ABP. SVIATOSLAV SHEVCHUK
Major Archbishop of Kyiv-Halyč
War is always a failure of humanity. War is always a mistake and must be condemned in and of itself.
The Council of representatives came to Rome after sending a letter to Pope Francis describing the horrific conditions of the war and asking for a word of comfort. They also participated in Vespers for the closing ceremony of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.
The Metropolitan Archbishop of Lviv explained that Pope Francis' words and actions since the outbreak of the war last year have made an impact on the people of Ukraine.
ABP. MIECZYSLAW MOKRZYCKI
Diocese of Lviv, Ukraine
We know that there are not a lot of Catholics in Ukraine. The majority are Orthodox who don't really understand the role of the Pope or his position. And that's why it was maybe more difficult for them. But I mean the people really appreciate and the entire country of Ukraine really appreciates all that the Holy Father and the Holy See do for Ukraine.
Established in 1996, the Pan-Ukrainian Council includes representatives from 15 churches and religious organizations and one interfaith organization.
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