Pope Francis held a meeting with young Ukrainians on Saturday, offering encouragement during their country’s ongoing war. During this historic gathering organized by Apostolic Nuncio Visvaldas Kulbokas and Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk, the Pope urged the youth to practice forgiveness and to resist retaliation, remembering the sacrifice of heroes like a soldier named Oleksandr, who carried a Gospel into battle. He emphasized the importance of loving their homeland and honoring those who have died for Ukraine.
The event took place in the Cathedral of the Resurrection in Kyiv and was attended by individuals affected by the war, including Bishop Jan Sobilo and the Apostolic Nuncio, who introduced the Pope. Despite recent airstrikes, power and internet services allowed the conversation to continue. The meeting began with prayer, and the Apostolic Nuncio read a passage from St. Paul, highlighting how afflictions can build endurance.
Three young people shared their personal stories. A 17-year-old girl spoke about her soldier brother’s struggles, expressing hope through prayer. A young woman from Donetsk, who has faced violence, spoke about her desire for justice and peace, believing in the strength of goodness. An 18-year-old from Kharkiv shared the pain of losing friends in the war and lamented the death of a 12-year-old girl named Maria.
Iliana Dobra, a 21-year-old teacher, asked the Pope if dying for one’s country was worth it and how to uphold faith amid global devaluation of life. The Pope acknowledged the undervaluation of life and declared that dialogue is essential for building peace. He addressed a Ukrainian refugee’s question about maintaining faith, saying that nostalgia for one’s homeland is a powerful force that helps individuals move forward.
Julia, 27, expressed the struggles of witnessing destruction in Ukraine, asking about the path to peace. The Pope condemned the horrors of war, including famine, and reminded the youth of the importance of remembering their heroes. He encouraged them to carry a pocket Gospel and read from it daily, instilling hope and love for their country. He emphasized that each young person has a mission and should dream even amid hardships.
Tatiana, 35, questioned how to teach forgiveness amidst deep emotional wounds. The Pope acknowledged forgiveness is challenging but stressed its necessity, suggesting that recalling how one has been forgiven can help. He encouraged resilience, urging the youth to rise after falling and to take risks without fear.
In conclusion, he called upon them to remember their fallen heroes and maintain their spirits despite adversity. The event ended with applause and cheers for the Pope after he imparted his blessing.