“John Paul II Was the Pope of Ukrainian Sovereignty” — His Beatitude Sviatoslav at a Conference in Poznań
On March 26, 2025, a two-day cross-disciplinary conference titled “John Paul II: Reading History. Creating History” commenced at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, with the participation of His Beatitude Sviatoslav, Father and Head of the UGCC. The conference serves as a platform for deepening the understanding of the legacy of Pope John Paul II, particularly his influence on Ukraine and the Ukrainian nation.
Scientific Panel
During the morning session, speaking at the scientific panel, the Primate emphasized: “For us, Ukrainians, John Paul II is not merely a historical figure. His message and charisma are a present reality and a calling to true freedom in the future—freedom that we must defend, even at the cost of our own blood.”
Recalling the moment of John Paul II’s election as Pope, His Beatitude Sviatoslav shared a personal memory of first hearing about it on Soviet television as a child. He underscored the significance of this event for Ukrainians, marking the beginning of profound changes.
“John Paul II was the Pope of Ukrainian sovereignty. He began addressing us in the Ukrainian language at a time when we were denied the right to speak it,” the Head of the UGCC emphasized.
One of the most pivotal moments, he noted, was the Holy Father’s visit to Ukraine in 2001, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence. His Beatitude Sviatoslav recalled the Pope’s words to Ukrainian youth: “Do not be afraid to be a free nation. Ukraine will be what you build it to be.”
These words, he stressed, remain just as relevant today, as Ukrainian youth continue to defend their freedom in the midst of war.
Additionally, the UGCC Head highlighted John Paul II’s role as a Pope of solidarity and reconciliation—both Polish-Ukrainian and European.
“He was among the first to tell Europeans that Europe is not merely a geographical, economic, or political concept,” said His Beatitude Sviatoslav, adding: “Sometimes, the word ‘Europe’ is associated solely with the European Union. Yet Kyiv, Ukraine, and our culture are an integral part of European culture.”
Popular Scientific Panel
At the second panel discussion—attended by hundreds of students, intellectuals, and government officials—His Beatitude Sviatoslav underscored John Paul II’s profound connection with young people, calling him the “Pope of youth”. The Holy Father always recognized the crucial role of youth in shaping the world’s future and believed in their potential to transform reality.
“Young people mattered more to him than meetings with presidents or older officials,” the Head of the UGCC remarked.
He also reflected on John Paul II’s spiritual legacy, particularly his message of freedom and responsibility.
“For us in Ukraine, his meeting with young people during his 2001 pilgrimage was nothing short of historic. On that occasion, he addressed Ukrainian youth with prophetic words that remain deeply relevant today. He spoke of freedom—not just as a gift but as a calling,” said the Primate.
Among the distinguished attendees was Lech Wałęsa, President of Poland from 1990 to 1995, who wore a small blue and yellow flag pin on his chest, near his heart. His Beatitude Sviatoslav acknowledged this gesture and expressed his gratitude for this sign of solidarity with Ukraine.
As the discussion panel concluded, the Father and Head of the UGCC delivered an inspiring message to today’s young generation: “If the Holy Father John Paul II were among us today, he would say to students and young people: ‘Do not be afraid!’Do not be afraid to open the door to Christ, and do not be afraid to cross the threshold of hope. The message of John Paul II is a message of hope. Do not be afraid—build your future!”
The UGCC Department for Information
