Br. Błażej letters – Night 438

Amidst Conflict, Faith and Resilience Shine Through in Ukraine

Date: May 9, 2023

As the war in Ukraine reaches its 438th night, communities across the country continue to experience restless days and nights. Despite the potential danger, Ukraine’s sophisticated anti-missile systems have provided a measure of safety. Last night, 35 kamikaze (Shahid) drones launched by Russian forces were shot down, though debris from the drones caused damage in cities like Kyiv’s Sviatoshyn area and Vinnytsia, where residents were awakened by night alarms. In Odesa, a recreation center burned down following an air raid.

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In these challenging times, the people of Ukraine are reminded of the importance of spiritual guidance and the power of the Word. They hold onto the belief that “If God is with us, who can be against us?” and trust that nothing can separate them from the love of Christ. Amidst the affliction, oppression, and persecution brought on by war, the people of Ukraine strive to unite and listen to God’s voice, praying for a just peace.

The people of Ukraine live in war, but they do not live by war. Instead, they choose to focus on faith, love, and the power of the Word to guide them through these dark times.

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Communities across the country are finding ways to heal and support one another. In Kyiv, the Fr. Pio House offers art therapy for children, mothers, and women. In Vinnytsia, another day of evangelization took place in front of the Capuchin church. Men in Kyiv, known as the Knights of John Paul II, gathered for a rosary prayer.

The Capuchin brothers continue to support and spread hope throughout Ukraine. Brother Yaroslav Fedirchuk, superior and parish priest in Dnipro, celebrated his name day, while Brother Kazimierz Guzik from Lviv shared a video message: https://youtu.be/2_AWf3aWnQQ

Brother Anton Pogornyj from Starokonstantiniv contributed to Vatican Radio’s Ukrainian language section, https://www.vaticannews.va/uk/church/news/2023-05/italijskyj-misioner-vidpoviddyu-na-tragediyu-vijni-ye-lyudyanist.html

Lastly, in Uzhhorod, Brother Marek Lisowski and his team distributed 63 sets of bedding to expatriates living in dormitories, thanks to the generous contributions of benefactors.

Through these stories, it is evident that the light of faith, hope, and love endures in the hearts of the Ukrainian people.

Christ is risen! Христос Воскрес!