Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, celebrated Mass at the Marian Shrine of Berdychiv in Ukraine, where he echoed Pope Francis’ and the Ukrainian people’s cry for peace. The shrine, a significant spiritual centre for Ukraine’s Catholic community, was filled with faithful gathered to pray for peace amidst the ongoing war.
In his homily, delivered mostly in Ukrainian, Cardinal Parolin drew inspiration from the shrine’s history, particularly the first miracle attributed to the intercession of Our Lady of the Snows in 1647. He encouraged the Ukrainian Church to remain “prophetic” through persistent prayer, seeking God’s conversion of hearts and an end to violence and death.
The Cardinal urged the faithful not to lose trust in God, even in the face of seemingly triumphant evil. He pointed to the crucified Christ and the resurrection, emphasizing that death will not have the final word. He also highlighted the Blessed Virgin Mary’s role as a symbol of tenderness, love, and consolation, invoking her intercession for a peaceful future, comfort for the suffering, and protection for those defending their homeland.
Through his words and prayers, Cardinal Parolin reassured the Ukrainian people of Pope Francis’ paternal embrace and closeness to their pain, offering hope and solace in a time of great need.