Month: August 2021

Stories of Resilience and Faith: July 18-23, 2023

July 18, 2023 Tuesday – 509 war night.

Amidst the ongoing conflict and war, life in Ukraine carries its share of trials and joys. On this ordinary Tuesday, the 509th war night brought no respite as 38 drones and rockets were thwarted by anti-missile systems. Tragically, cities like Odesa and Nikolaev faced rocket attacks, while the Kharkiv region saw a counterattack from the Russian army, resulting in casualties. The people yearn for peace, praying to end the hostilities and a just resolution to the conflict.

In a touching reminder, Moses’ childhood and youth story highlights God’s presence in seemingly ordinary events. Similarly, the lives of the people of Ukraine carry the same divine presence, even in mundane stories. “The heart of those who seek God will come alive,” and they find solace in knowing that God listens to the prayers of the poor and oppressed.

Life continues amidst the chaos, with glimpses of resilience and normalcy. In Vinnytsia, children gathered for a holiday meeting organized by “Caritas-Spes Vinnytsia,” providing a moment of joy and connection. Meanwhile, the Zaporizhzhya region saw a hopeful harvest, a symbol of sustenance even in trying times.

The spirit of unity and creativity thrives in Vinnytsia, with Clara Studio extending an invitation and the “School of Mary” holding its summer session. Such activities bring communities together, fostering hope for a better future.

Amidst the war, the Brothers of the Custody of Ukraine continue their work with devotion and dedication. Br. Zbigniew Sawchuk’s gathering of altar boys after the Eucharist in Lviv exemplifies the importance of faith and camaraderie. In Vinnytsia, Br. Igor Mularski’s efforts to install a statue of St. James signify a commitment to faith and its symbols.

July 19, 2023 Wednesday – 510 war night.

Ukraine continues to face the daunting reality of war, with the night skies ablaze with red from rocket attacks. Various regions, including Dnipro, Kyiv, Vinnytsia, and Khmelnytskyi, where Capuchin brothers reside, faced threats and danger. Among them, Odessa bore the brunt of the recent rocket raid.

Amid uncertainty, words of comfort and strength resonate. As Moses questioned his ability to lead, God’s response assured him, “I will be with you.” This message of empowerment extends to all, as God chooses the weak to make them strong.

Amid the chaos, stories of hope and normalcy emerge. Br. Kazimierz Guzik recounts a pilgrimage to Berdyczow, expressing gratitude for the journey’s success and the return of a church. Br. Konstantin Morozov reveals that Our Lady of Berdyczow is soon to be proclaimed the primary patroness of Ukraine in the Latin rite, instilling hope and faith.

The Capuchin brothers also share glimpses of their lives. Br. Vladislav Gmyrko celebrates a long-awaited road repair project near their residence, while Br. Leonid Kushniruk spends quality time with Krasilov’s children during their vacation. Br. Marek Lisowski commends the bravery of the Krasilov Academy children, who learn about the Church’s underground activities in their camp.

Despite the turmoil, the message remains unchanged – God is love. It is a reminder to live not solely by the war surrounding them but to cherish love, unity, and the simple joys of life.

 

Br. Blazej Suska bridges Vinnitsa and Walcz, sharing stories of brothers’ activities and experiences.

In these tumultuous times, the presence of God provides strength, hope, and solace, guiding the people of Ukraine through their darkest days.

July 20, 2023 Thursday – 511 war night.

Ukraine has no calm skies; the whole country is grappling with the impacts of conflict.

The chosen scripture from the Book of Exodus tells the story of Moses, a weak and fearful man, and the reassuring presence of God, who declares, “I am who I am.” This narrative reminds us of the comfort and strength we can find in God’s presence during challenging times.

Jesus’ message also provides solace to those burdened and afflicted, offering rest for weary souls. God’s love is the source of hope and support during war and hardship.

The images of destruction in Odesa, Nikolaev, and other regions are a stark reminder of the suffering endured by ordinary people. Civilian homes and buildings have been shelled, causing immense pain and hardship.

Amidst the chaos, there are also glimpses of gratitude and resilience. The children of Krasilov express their appreciation to the Capuchin Sisters and Brothers for their support during the holidays. Celebrations like Taras and Mariana’s joint birthday demonstrate the strength of community and faith in the face of adversity.

July 22, 2023. Saturday – 513 war night.

The unrest continues as missile and drone attacks persist, mainly targeting border regions. Let us pray to end the war and restore peace in Ukraine.

Today, on the feast of St. Mary Magdalene, her life serves as a powerful message from God to us. Despite her past sins, she embraced love and became a devoted evangelist, showing that sin is not a barrier to God’s forgiveness. Her response was love for love, experiencing God’s love, and sharing it with others.

In Odesa and the surrounding areas, the devastating impact of rocket attacks from the Black Sea is evident in the destruction of homes and grain stores.

In Krasilow, a parishioner and family doctor, Mr. Roman, shares his frontline experiences from the Bahmut area, shedding light on the challenges faced in the conflict.

The School of Mary commemorates its 25th anniversary on the Feast of St. Lawrence of Brindisi, giving thanks for Brother Peter Kurkevich, the founding father and longtime director of the School.

The Brothers of the Custody of Ukraine, including Br. Zbigniew Sawczuk and Br. Marek Lisowski, share glimpses of their daily lives, marking jubilees and fostering unity among their communities.

Throughout these turbulent times, the message remains constant – God is love. Let us hold on to this truth, finding solace and strength in God’s love as we navigate the challenges of war and seek a brighter future for Ukraine.

July 23, 2023. Sunday – 514 war night.

The night brings yet another barrage of rocket attacks on Odessa, with devastating consequences. The Orthodox cathedral is destroyed, and the toll of injuries and loss of life continues to rise. Amid such despair, the Word reminds us of the power of prayer and the Holy Spirit’s guidance, even when we are at a loss for words. The Spirit intercedes on our behalf, carrying our supplications to God.

The war continues to take its toll on Ukraine, with the reminder that it affects lives everywhere, not just in one specific region. The destruction, pain, and suffering are felt throughout the country, reminding us of the urgency to seek peace and end the conflict.

Amidst the turmoil, life continues, and the Brothers of the Custody of Ukraine celebrate significant events, like Br. Roma Lukaszewski’s 60th birthday in Walcz. These moments of joy and camaraderie provide respite in adversity.

In Kamianske, there is progress as a new asphalt road leads to the monastery and church, symbolizing hope and renewal. In Krasilow, Andrew Kinel finds solace in prayer at the church, a source of strength in troubled times.

Despite the challenges, the message remains resolute – God is love. It is this love that sustains and uplifts during the darkest hours. As we live amidst war, we must remember that love guides us, illuminating the path toward peace and healing.

From Br. Błażej letters
Edited by br. Igor De Bliquy
for the Capuchin Communication Office
Province of St. Joseph

A Chronicle of Daily Struggles and Unyielding Hope in Ukraine, June 30-July 8, 2023

Amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, the Ukrainian people exemplify remarkable resilience and unwavering faith. From the relentless nights of war to the unwavering dedication of the Capuchin brothers providing essential ministry and support, these stories shed light on the transformative power of faith and the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people. As we explore their journeys, we witness their determination to rise above adversity, their unwavering hope for a just peace, and the profound influence of their faith in guiding them through the darkest times.

Night 491: More air raids and a car crash.

Another night of war norm: gunfire alarms, and kamikaze drone and missile raids on areas of eastern and southern Ukraine. In our area, thank God it is peaceful. We pray for a just peace for Ukraine.

The Word tells us that Jesus took on our weaknesses and bore our sicknesses: “When Jesus came down from the mountain, great crowds followed Him. And, behold, a leper came up and fell down before Him, saying: ‘Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.’ Jesus stretched out His hand, touched him and said: ‘I will, be cleansed!’ And immediately he was cleansed of leprosy.”

This week, we remembered the jubilee of the 25th anniversary of Bishop Leon Dubrawski’s episcopal sacraments. In Vinnitsa, meanwhile, Br. Igor Gumeniuk’s sister shared with us the goods from her garden. Let us pray for our brothers and sisters, and for our benefactors.

In Lvov, our brothers Zbyszek Sawczuk and Andrzej Kinel were in a head-on collision with another car, which had apparently lost control and drove into the lane in which the brothers were traveling. The brothers are injured but alive and, after being given first aid, were taken to the hospital for additional tests before returning to the monastery. The other driver suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Night 492: Nothing is impossible for God.

We had a peaceful night, though there is unrest related to the situation around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Russian terrorists are planning to blow it up. God, give us a just peace!

The Word recounts a meeting between God and Abraham: “And, having worshiped them to the ground, (Abraham) said: ‘O Lord, if Thou givest me kindness, deign not to bypass Thy servant …’

“The Lord said to (Abraham): ‘Why is it that Sarah laughs and thinks: Will I really be able to give birth when I have grown old?’ Is there anything that would be impossible for the Lord? This time next year I will return to you, and Sarah will have a son.”

Nothing is impossible for God. This is what Mary heard at the Annunciation.

In the Ukrainian mountains, our brothers Konstantin, Oleksandr and Pavel spent time with young people at a formation camp.

Night 493: War comes back by night.

Last night was full of full of rocket attacks and civilian casualties in Zaporizhzhia and Kherson. Among the victims were children and young people. A night of alarms and drones. God, give us your just peace!

God’s prophetic word recalls that Jesus said to His apostles, “Whoever loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And whoever loves a son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.

“Whoever does not take up his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me. Whoever wants to find his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.

“He who receives you, receives Me, and he who receives Me, receives Him who sent Me. Whoever receives a prophet as a prophet, the reward of a prophet shall be given to him. Whoever accepts a righteous person as a righteous person, the reward of a righteous person will be given.

“Whoever gives a cup of fresh water to drink to one of the least of these, because he is a disciple, verily I say to you, he shall not lose his reward.” God is love!

We led another day of summer formation for young people in the Carpathian mountains. And in Kiev, Fr. Pio’s House led a session of art therapy — painting with coffee.

Night 495: A war-torn Capuchin “birthday” celebration.

The night in our area was calm. Alarms and rockets were hear in Kiev, Dnipro, and Zaporizhzhia. In the end, three people were killed and 19 were wounded. God, give us a just peace!

Who is He …? The Word says: “When Jesus got into the boat, His disciples followed Him. And, behold, a great storm broke on the lake, so that the waves flooded the boat; but He was asleep. Then they came to Him and woke Him up, saying: ‘Lord, save us, we are perishing!’ And He said to them: ‘Why are you fearful, men of little faith?’ Then, having arisen, He rebuked the whirlwinds and the lake, and there was a deep silence. And the people asked in amazement: ‘Who is He that even the winds and the lake obey Him?’” In true love, there is no fear — and God is love!

Yesterday, we Capuchins celebrated our “birthday.” The Order of Capuchin Friars Minor was approved by the Church with the bull Religionis zelus, issued by Pope Clement VII on July 3, 1528. In five years — in 2028, God willing — we will celebrate our 500th birthday.

The Order has produced 16 saints and 71 blesseds — seven of them Poles. Since its beginning, the Capuchins have given the Church 10 cardinals, two patriarchs, 69 archbishops and 278 bishops.

In Vinnitsa, our brother Patrick baptized little Milena, who, together with her mother, had to leave her family home in fear for her life and live in our neighborhood.

Construction of a statue of St. James at our monastery, meanwhile, continues underway and is being financed by the city government. The statue itself, which is already finished, was paid for by us Capuchins even before the war broke out.

Night 496: A silent night.

Night in our area was quiet, though there is increasing talk in our area about the possible blowing-up of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. At the same time, the Ukrainian army’s counterattack is slowly moving forward.

“The poor man cried out and the Lord heard him.” The Word reminds us that man’s misery is a departure from the source of love and peace, from God. “Behold, a poor man cried out, and the Lord heard him, and delivered him from all oppression.” The angel of the Lord surrounds the godly with a shelter to save them. The seekers of the Lord shall lack nothing!

Yesterday, terrorist rockets of the Russians damaged an apartment building in Pervomaisk, in the Kharkiv region. Thirty-one people were injured, including nine children.

Brother Maurizio, a former provincial from the province of Foggia and who was with us in Kiev, became our new General Councilor. He came to our shrine and gave us a relic of St. Padre Pio, the patron of our custody.

Night 497: More rockets … and a heartfelt thanksgiving.

Tonight was a very restless one, with heavy missile attacks all over. Lviv suffered the most. As of the early morning, the city had reported four people killed and 34 injured in rocket attacks. About 60 apartments and 50 cars were destroyed. Our brothers in Lviv, however, survived. God, give us a just peace!

Yesterday’s Word told us that “The poor man cried out and the Lord heard him.”

Today’s Psalm says that “The bonds of death have entwined me, the bonds of the abyss reached me, fear and anguish overwhelmed me. But I called upon the name of the Lord: ‘Lord, save my life!’”

Today, then, “the Lord heard me.” God is love!

Some of the friars this week visited Zariczne, a village close to the front line and that has been under shelling for nine months. People there are tired of the war. The brothers brought with them 40 packages of products.

One of the front-line military officers sent back this thank-you note:

“Good day. Emotions are overflowing us. The transmitter has been installed. What a beautiful thing. Everyone has connections up to a hundred meters. You would see their faces. They can talk to their loved ones. Now a big thank you from all users. You guys are the best.

“Thanks a lot for the other gifts, but the transmitter, it’s also a connection not only to work, but also to family. I hope you understand that. Sometimes it is very important for us. You and God do a lot for us. Thank you all.”

God is love!

Night 498: The Gospel in the midst of death.

Lviv is in mourning. Nine civilians were killed by yesterday’s Russian rocket attack, which also left 49 wounded. There were also civilian casualties in Dnipro. Tonight was full of alerts, while in the east the Ukrainian army leads a slow counterattack.

The Word, though, brings us good news: “Jesus, coming out of Capernaum, saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs house and said to him: ‘Follow Me!’ And he got up and followed Him. While Jesus was sitting in the house behind the table, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Jesus and His disciples. Seeing this, the Pharisees said to His disciples: ‘Why does your Teacher eat together with tax collectors and sinners?’ He, hearing this, said: ‘It is not the healthy who need a physician, but those who are unwell. Go and try to understand what is meant by “I want mercy rather than sacrifice.” For I did not come to appoint the righteous, but sinners.’”

God is love — especially for sinners in need of conversion. God is love!

The brothers now are part of a pilgrimage to Bilshivtsev. About 110 people are on the trip from Lviv to the shrine of Mary Queen of Peace and Reconciliation.

From Br. Błażej letters nights 491-499
Edited by br. McLean Bennett
for the Capuchin Communication Office
Province of St. Joseph

Stories of Resilience and Faith: Ukrainians Endure the War

On June 26, 2023, we found ourselves amid another restless war night, peppered with rocket threats from various directions. Amidst this turmoil, we find solace in our faith, drawing strength from the words addressed to Abram and the Apostles. They remind us not to pass judgment and to focus on our self-growth before critiquing others, reinforcing the principle, “God is love”.

Back in Kyiv, we held our monthly Eucharist of the Christian Relief Service in the chapel at our shrine of Fr. Pio, upholding our traditions and spiritual commitments.

Updates from the fraternity: Sergey Kippa shares his interactions with the guardian of Kraków and his journey to Rome. In Kyiv, Viktor Deszuk organized a day of recollection for the local SFO community, featuring prayer, discussion, and Mass.

Our enduring message amidst this conflict remains: “God is love.” This is the essence of our faith, our solace in these troubled times.

June 27, 2023, our 488th war night, yet a calm one compared to the usual chaos. However, unrest prevails in the east. Amidst all this, we turn to the words of Abram addressing Lot, learning about resolving disputes, and seeking unity. Our faith shines as our guide, the light in our lives, reminding us to take the narrow, righteous path, reinforcing the divine mantra: “God is love.”

In Kyiv, at the House of Fr. Pio, we partnered with the Christian Relief Service and the Joint Veterans of ATO for a project, “Give hope to mom”. We honor the women of this war, the brave 11,000 Ukrainian women standing firm on various fronts.

Sharing updates from the brothers: Sergey Kippa spent his day in a formation session in Rome. After presenting our Ukrainian situation, we received solidarity and support from brothers worldwide. The shared empathy is palpable, manifesting as prayers for us from a large group of Franciscans in India.

In Lviv, Kazimierz Guzik undertook a pilgrimage to St. Sigismund Gorazdovsky, offering thanks and preparing for the upcoming Berdyсz Capuchin pilgrimage.

From Starokonstantinov, Stanislaw Manski reports on the 25^th-anniversary celebration of Br. Leonid Michalec’s priestly ordination, along with the parish indulgence in honor of St. John the Baptist.

On June 28, 2023, our 489th war night, we experienced relative calm, with attention focused on the counterattacks of the Ukrainian army. Our prayers aim for minimal loss of life. Yet, suffering persists, with a rocket striking Kramatorsk and causing casualties, including a child. We plead for a just peace.

Drawing strength from the Word, we remember God’s assurance to Abram: “Fear not, Abram, for I am your defender…”

In Kyiv, we continue the therapeutic project “Give hope to moms” with the Christian Relief Service, offering support to mothers who have lost their sons in the war since 2014. Br. Konstantin Morozov plays a key role in this endeavor.

In Vinnytsia, we received a visit from Jacek, a devoted volunteer, at our Volunteer Center. We also perform essential renovations, replacing old windows and doors while maintaining our charitable operations. We offer thanks to our benefactors for their generous support. Meanwhile, Brother Oleksandr Mogilny speaks in an interview on Credo, sharing insights about our mission.

From Lviv, Sergey Voronyuk shares his joy in guiding the “Koinonia” community’s retreat in Schidnytsia, Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast’, emphasizing the spiritual enrichment experienced during these days.

 

From Br. Błażej letters nights 487-490
Edited by br. Igor De Bliquy
for the Capuchin Communication Office
Province of St. Joseph