“Know You Are Not Alone!” – Knights of Columbus Supreme Chaplain During Solidarity Visit to Kyiv
On October 19–20, Archbishop William Edward Lori of Baltimore (USA), the Supreme Chaplain of the Knights of Columbus, visited Kyiv and Bucha as part of his trip to Ukraine. The purpose of the visit was to express solidarity with the Knights of Columbus in Ukraine and to support the Ukrainian people during this time of war.
Archbishop Lori, the global chaplain of the Knights of Columbus, provides spiritual guidance to over 2 million members worldwide. As the archbishop noted, he came to Ukraine to “express solidarity with the Knights of Columbus in Ukraine, recognize their excellent humanitarian work, and connect with the people who have suffered and continue to suffer in the wake of the ongoing war.”
On Sunday, October 20, the Supreme Chaplain took part in the Divine Liturgy at the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, which was presided over by Bishop Mykhailo Bubniy, Exarch of Odesa, and National Chaplain of the Knights of Columbus in Ukraine.
In his sermon, Archbishop Lori emphasized the importance of hope, endurance, and faith. “This time of war has brought untold suffering, but you should know that you are not alone. You are embraced by the prayers and support of the faithful around the world,” he said.
“Your faith and courage in the face of war is a powerful testimony to the world. You are enduring unbearable pain, yet you persevere by turning to God, placing your hope in Him,” the archbishop added.
He also reminded everyone of God’s presence during these difficult times: “God is with you even as you confront the horrors of war. He has claimed you as His own and will never forget you.”
In conclusion, Archbishop Lori urged all to trust in God and the power of prayer: “God will bless you! God will protect you! And God will give you peace!”
After the service, Archbishop Lori visited the crypt of the cathedral where His Beatitude Lubomyr Husar rests. He also held a fraternal meeting with the Knights of Columbus from Kyiv and nearby areas.
The day before, on October 19, Archbishop Lori visited Bucha. There, he met with children who had lost their parents to the war and delivered warm clothes provided by the Knights of Columbus.
Later that evening, at the Basilian Monastery in Kyiv, the Supreme Chaplain shared a meal with the families of fallen defenders of Ukraine, assuring them of ongoing prayer and support.
It is important to note that this was Archbishop Lori’s second visit to Ukraine since the full-scale war began. “The war has grown very personal for me,” he said. “I will carry a message to the international community, reminding them that we must never forget to stand together and pray for peace in Ukraine.”
The UGCC Department for Information
