Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe, O.P., has concluded his visit to Ukraine, expressing solidarity with the local Church and communities amidst the ongoing war. During his trip, he visited Kyiv, Fastiv, Kherson, Odesa, and Kharkiv, witnessing both devastation and resilience.
In Kherson, he was struck by the community’s determination to rebuild, despite being on the front line. He met with volunteers, clergy, and those affected by the conflict, emphasizing that Ukrainians are “brothers and sisters” to the global community. One poignant encounter was with children of single mothers in Kharkiv, where the Orionist Sisters brought joy amidst hardship.
Radcliffe highlighted the role of religious communities in fostering fraternity and hope. He stressed that the world must recognize Ukraine’s suffering as a global concern, advocating for freedom, democracy, and peace. He also appealed for hope in the face of violence, citing the Eucharist as a sacrament of hope.