Pope Leo XIV invoked a message of hope and solidarity, urging the faithful to find strength in God’s love despite the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Newsroom (02 July 2025, Gaudium Press ) – In a heartfelt address to members of the Synod of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV invoked a message of hope and solidarity, urging the faithful to find strength in God’s love despite the ongoing war in Ukraine. Speaking in the Consistory Hall on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, the pontiff emphasized the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the Church’s role in providing both spiritual and humanitarian support.
“Peace be with you!” Pope Leo XIV began, addressing the gathered bishops, including His Beatitude and His Eminence, during their synodal assembly. The meeting followed a gathering of Ukrainian pilgrims in Saint Peter’s Basilica the previous Saturday, marking a significant moment of communion during the Jubilee Year.
Reflecting on the theme of hope, the Pope acknowledged the immense challenges faced by the Ukrainian people. “In the current historical context, it is not easy to talk about hope to you and to the people entrusted to your pastoral care,” he said, referencing the “senseless war” that has left families grieving and communities wounded. Yet, he praised the enduring faith of Ukrainians, noting, “I receive many witnesses of faith and hope on the part of men and women of your people. This is a sign of God’s strength, which manifests itself in the midst of the rubble of destruction.”
The Pope underscored the Church’s vital role in addressing both spiritual and humanitarian needs, recognizing the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church’s efforts to serve “Christ in every wounded and distressed person” seeking aid. He expressed his personal closeness to the faithful, stating, “I am close to you, and through you, I am close to all the faithful of your Church.”
In a poignant reflection, Pope Leo XIV spoke of the “great mystery” of communion, uniting the living with those who have lost their lives in the conflict but are “accepted in God.” He invoked the intercession of the Holy Mother of God, praying for peace to return to Ukraine “as soon as possible.”
The address concluded with a moment of shared prayer, as the Pope invited the assembly to sing the “Our Father” in Ukrainian, recalling their recent performance of the prayer during the pilgrims’ gathering. “If you would sing for us, we could sing the ‘Our Father,’” he said, fostering a moment of unity and spiritual connection.
Pope Leo XIV closed the meeting with a heartfelt blessing, reaffirming his support for the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church and its mission in these trying times.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican.va
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