As the world marks the somber one-year anniversary on Feb. 24 of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has joined with the Synod of Bishops of the Ukranian Catholic Church in a call to prayer, fasting and almsgiving. All the faithful and people of good will from around the world – individuals, families, parish communities – are asked to join in this powerful effort to help bring a stop to the war.
“As we usher in the season of Lent, may all the faithful and people of good will join with the Synod of Bishops of the Ukrainian Catholic Church, in setting aside February 24 as a solemn day of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, beseeching the Lord to bring an end to the fighting and a return to justice and peace in Ukraine,” wrote Bishop David J. Malloy of Rockford, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on International Justice and Peace.
Full USCCB statement: Bishop chairman marks one year anniversary of Russian invasion of Ukraine
In announcing the day of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, Sviatoslav Shevchuk, Major Archbishop of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, declared: “Let this day be an opportunity for us to do good for someone: to comfort the afflicted, to clothe the naked, to warm those who are freezing, to feed the hungry…Let us offer our spiritual efforts and our prayers for the victory of the Ukrainian people in this unequal battle, as well as for our army”.
A letter from the Ukrainian Catholic Bishops of the United States further stated:
“We must always remember that our strongest weapons in this battle are prayer, fasting and good deeds, which we offer at the throne of our merciful Lord. May we always be encouraged and strengthened by the words of Our Lord: ‘For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.’ (Mt. 18:20) Therefore, let us never lose faith and hope in the ultimate victory of Ukraine over her enemies and the triumph of truth and justice.
Also read:
Pope Francis calls for Day of Prayer for Ukraine on Jan. 26 (Jan. 25, 2022)
Bishop Walkowiak leads prayer of consecration to Mary of Russia, Ukraine (March 28, 2022)
Ukraine: Pope invites faithful to pray daily rosary for peace in May (May 1, 2022)
