On Tuesday, the 1,000th anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Pope Francis sent a letter expressing his sympathy for the Ukrainian people, expressing his hope for peace and promising prayers.
Vatican News
Vatican City, Tuesday, November 19, 2024 (REI): Tuesday marked 1,000 days since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Commemorating this tragic day, Pope Francis once expressed plus his solidarity with the suffering Ukrainian people.
In a letter addressed to Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas, apostolic nuncio to Ukraine, the Pope acknowledged the extent to which the Ukrainian people are suffering.
He wrote: “I understand well that no human words can save their lives from the bombs that rain down on them every day, nor can they console those who mourn the death of their loved ones, nor can they heal their wounds, bring their children back to house, free prisoners or restore justice and peace.”
However, he said, it is the same word “peace” that the Pope prays will one day resonate again in the homes, families and streets of Ukraine.
tribute to the dead
In a letter to his representative in the country, Pope Francis called for a “moment of national silence” observed every morning at 9 a.m. by the people of Ukraine in tribute to all victims of the war: children and adults, civilians and soldiers, as well as prisoners held in terrible conditions,” he also recalled.
Thinking of these people, the Pope quoted the words of Psalm 121: “My help comes from the Lord, who made the heavens and the earth.”
The Pope stressed that this unity in prayer is a powerful reminder that divine help comes even in the most difficult moments.
He said, “May the Lord comfort our hearts and strengthen the hope (collecting every tear and holding everyone accountable) that He remains close to us even when human efforts seem fruitless and actions inadequate.”
appeal for peace
Throughout his pontificate, Pope Francis has tirelessly called for peace around the world, calling Ukraine a “martyr” and asking for prayers for peace.
In a letter to Archbishop Kulbokas, the Holy Father reiterated his prayer for a change of mind to promote dialogue and harmony.
He stressed that the words he addresses to the Apostolic Nuncio and his accompanying people in Ukraine are not mere words of solidarity, but a deep prayer for divine help.
He explained that only God is “the only source of life, hope and wisdom.”
blessing for ukraine
At the end of his letter, Pope Francis offered his blessing to the bishops and priests who remain firm in their mission to accompany and support the faithful of Ukraine.
In conclusion, the Pope blessed all the Ukrainian people and expressed his confidence that “God will have the final judgment on this great tragedy.”
And he concluded: “I bless all the Ukrainian people.”
