Head of the UGCC on the 159th week of the war: “I appeal to all citizens of Ukraine: Let us keep a cool head, our hearts burning, and our wills steeled!”
No matter what the world says about us, God is our only true ally. He speaks to us today: Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save. His Beatitude Sviatoslav, the Father and Head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, said this on the 159th week of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine.
According to the Primate, the past week, except for heavy fighting at the front, daily attacks on our cities and villages from the sky, will probably go down in history as a period of international diplomatic upheaval.
“Ukraine is forced to fight for its rights, its dignity, and its justice, even when peace is at stake. We declare to the whole world that no peace treaty can be signed without truth and justice. Many people today debate Ukraine’s territories, while our Church and state defend the people—their right to exist and their freedom,” said His Beatitude Sviatoslav.
The Head of the Church noted that during the session of the UGCC Permanent Synod of Bishops in Canada, the hierarchs of the UGCC once again addressed the international community. In addition to synodal meetings, they met with the community, with representatives of the Catholic Church of Canada, and with the leaders of the Canadian state.
“In view of the events that have occurred this week, I appeal to all our people, the citizens of Ukraine. Do not fear the mighty of this world! Despite the various messages coming from Western capitals, we must have a cold mind, a burning heart and a will of steel to ensure Ukraine’s victory. Therefore, on behalf of the long-suffering Ukrainian people, I once again proclaim to the whole world: Ukraine stands! Ukraine fights! Ukraine prays!” the spiritual leader emphasized.
Upon the occasion of Lent, which the Church starts in Ukraine and in the diaspora, the Head of the UGCC invited all the faithful and people of good will to perform three actions without which true fasting is impossible.
The first is a person’s ability to exercise self-control. “I urge each of you,” he said, “to make a personal agenda for the time of Lent and to fight against what is disturbing you and pulling you away from God. Refrain from sinful actions, from any evil!”
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Video-message of the Head of the UGCC on the 159th Week of Full-Scale War, March 2, 2025
The second deed that needs to be cultivated during Lent is prayer. “What we ask for in prayer, we receive through fasting. Prayer is a prerequisite for healing a person from the wound of sin,” said His Beatitude Sviatoslav.
The third deed is almsgiving. “Think about what good you can do for your neighbor. The Holy Fathers say that no one is so poor that they cannot do works of mercy. It’s not just a monetary donation. Donate your time, your attention to help those in need,” said the Primate.
The UGCC Department for Information
