Bishop Maksym Ryabukha Meets with Seminarians of Lviv Theological Seminary
On February 5, seminarians of the Lviv Theological Seminary of the Holy Spirit met with Bishop Maksym Ryabukha, Bishop of the Donetsk Exarchate. The bishop shared his thoughts on current challenges and the power of God’s Providence.
The Lviv Theological Seminary of the Holy Spirit reported this on its Facebook page.
In his spiritual reflection, the Donetsk Exarch spoke about the unique times in which we live. He emphasized that “the news often brings negativity, causing despair, while the only right path is to trust in God.” “We must recognize what God is doing here and now,” the bishop said.
He also shared his experience of celebrating Christmas in eastern Ukraine. “While for most people, it is an ordinary event, for believers in frontline areas, celebrating Christmas in a community is a true gift. Clergy unity is crucial for fostering a sense of togetherness, as the vast distances between parishes make it difficult for priests to gather often,” said Bishop Maksym Ryabukha.
Special attention was given to the future: “The Church has today, but it also has a tomorrow that is fast approaching.” He stressed the importance of rebuilding Ukraine’s devastated cities and shared his personal experience: “Who will join us in restoring them?”
During the meeting, the bishop recounted miraculous survivals at the front. In two separate incidents, houses where medics were staying suffered direct strikes, yet everyone survived.
At the end of the meeting, the seminary’s rector, Fr. Dr. Ihor Boyko, thanked Bishop Maksym for his visit and assured him of the seminarians’ readiness to respond to the Church’s call and serve wherever they are most needed.
The UGCC Department for Information
