Church Advocates for the Rights and Dignity of Ukrainian Refugees Abroad: UGCC Head in the 137th week of war
“We support our people, advocating for their rights and dignity when they move abroad. We speak on their behalf to the governments, societies, and Churches of the countries where our brothers and sisters now reside,” said His Beatitude Sviatoslav, Father and Head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, on the 137th week of the cruel, sacrilegious war unleashed by the Russian aggressor on peaceful Ukrainian land.
On September 29, the Catholic Church celebrated the 110th World Day of Migrants and Refugees. His Beatitude Sviatoslav noted, “The Universal Church, under the leadership of Pope Francis, extends its attention and service to those forced to seek refuge in foreign countries for various reasons.”
The Patriarch emphasized that official statistics report more than 13 million Ukrainians have been forced to leave their homes due to the war, many of whom are now internally displaced.
“Our Church offers them warmth, support, and service,” he emphasized, adding, “We advocate for their rights and dignity when they find themselves abroad.”
The Head of the Church also acknowledged the importance of the support Ukrainians receive from other countries, specifically thanking Estonian society for their generous hospitality, as the country has welcomed around 100,000 Ukrainian refugees—a significant share of its population.
“We express our gratitude for the hospitality of the Estonian people, especially the communities of the Catholic Church,” said the spiritual leader of Ukrainians.
The UGCC Department for Information
