Letters from Br. Błażej: Night 243

October 25, 2022

Yesterday, when most of the brothers were on their way to the chapter, there were air raid alerts all over Ukraine. In the afternoon—war tranquility. Aircrafts over our skies…. Fortunately it’s just Ukrainian ЗСУ protecting us.

The brothers happily arrived. We began the 7th Ordinary Chapter of the Custody of Ukraine. Presided by Br. Marek, provincial, spiritual father of the chapter, and Br. Rafał, provincial vicar.  After the Eucharist and prayer to the Holy Spirit, we began our deliberations. Thank you for your prayers and please pray for us. Please remember Ukraine. (photo)

The Word… An important Word for this time…. “Brothers: be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.” Our lives depend not on people or war, but on God. To be afraid? Only of God, not to reject His love, His grace. God is love.

We live in war, we do not live by war.

Minsk, Belarus:
From Br. Andrew, Custos:

“Oh how good and nice it is when Brothers… live together… I wish you the power of the Crucified One, who is as close to you as ever. May this meeting of yours allow you to look with hope at your presence and the history of the Capuchins in Ukraine. Valiantly seek and recognize the will of the Most High, dear Brothers from the penitent land!!!”

Starokostiantyniv:
Brother Rafał opened our chapter with a talk. He spoke about our conversion which involves, among other things, changing our thinking. Preaching by a battery lamp. No power. Holy Spirit come with your light. (photo)

Krasyliv:
They received freely and give freely. The Gospel lived in deeds. Gifts given to the needy and on the front line too. (photo)

Starokostiantyniv/Verborodyntsi:
On Sunday, in the small village where Brothers Vladislav and Victor commute with pastoral ministry, they consecrated a cross—a sign of victory over death (war) and Satan (the spirit of war). Resurrection is near. (photo)

Vinnytsia:
Our Future—Reception of new altar boys, altar servants. Br. Alexander M. and Br. Igor M. (photo)

War joke: war cats. (photo)

May God grant us peace….