“You are among those who did not betray their conscience”: UGCC Head congratulates Mr. Myroslav Marynovych on his 75th anniversary
On January 4, Mr. Myroslav Marynovych, Vice-Rector of the Ukrainian Catholic University for Appointment and Mission, human rights activist, public figure, founding member of the Ukrainian Helsinki Human Rights Group, dissident and political prisoner of the USSR, founder and chairman of the amnesty movement in Ukraine (1991–1997), celebrated his 75th birthday. Greetings from the Father and Head of the UGCC, His Beatitude Sviatoslav, were read out at the celebration at UCU on Sunday, January 7.
In a congratulatory letter, His Beatitude Sviatoslav expressed personal gratitude and, on behalf of the Synod of Bishops of the UGCC, thanked the Lord for the gift of Mr. Myroslav’s life, his service to the Motherland, and his dedication to the native Church.
“Your life is an invaluable treasure that you have bestowed upon the foundation of our state. By the grace of God, having endured inhuman trials as a prisoner of conscience, you now reside in an independent Ukraine. This, indeed, is a great gift from Him!” the Primate emphasized.
“You are the salt of the earth,” the Head of the Church addressed the jubilee with these words from the Gospel, noting that he had invariably embodied the essence of salt, giving life meaning to the earth: “Observing your life, we recognize that in any circumstance—whether during the totalitarian regime when the KGB played the roles of judge and lawyer for the Soviet man, or during the period of independence—you have always stood for truth, the protection of human rights, and fidelity to God’s law.”
In addition, His Beatitude Sviatoslav expressed gratitude to Mr. Myroslav Marynovych for his active service within the walls of UCU. He also acknowledged his collaboration in developing the Church’s strategy, appreciating the valuable thoughts and advice provided by the jubilee. This collaboration extended to significant moments, such as the transfer of the Head of the UGCC’s seat from Lviv to Kyiv, as well as participation in public initiatives and co-authorship of programs and value-oriented messages.
“May you continue to shine as a bright lamp of God’s truth for our people and all those among whom you live—a ‘salt’ that will never lose its savor. Wishing you many more blessed years!”
The UGCC Department for Information
