Fr. Vitaliy, a missionary of the Congregation of the Mission in Ukraine, is also president of the Board of Depaul Ukraine, an organization that is part of the worldwide Vincentian Family, which is doing important work helping those affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
The General Council International of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SSVP) signed a collaboration agreement with Depaul International, donating 10,000 euros per month for a minimum of twelve months.
After words of welcome, Fr. Vitaliy spoke about the founding of Depaul in Kharkiv in 2006 and its journey to becoming a lifeline for the country’s homeless ever since.
“At this dark hour, the Church is urgently called to intercede before the Prince of Peace and to demonstrate her closeness to those directly affected by the conflict.”
The images that are presented to us through the press and social networks from Ukraine are heartbreaking.
On Friday, March 25, during the celebration of Reconciliation that he will preside over at 5:00 p.m. in St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis will consecrate Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
The hostilities in Ukraine are not something new: in 2014 in the eastern part of the country, there were hostile activities between the pro-Russian forces and the Ukrainians. During that year and in the following years, thousands of lives were lost.
The invasion of Ukraine has made us think of the fragility of international relations, and the danger posed by oligarchies and autocratic governments.
We invite the worldwide Vincentian Family to again join in prayer with the Church for peace in Ukraine.
On March 10, the Department of Migrants and Refugees held a working meeting to prepare for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees, which will be celebrated on September 25.
Most refugees arrive by train, with nothing left. They are very exhausted. When the trains stop, the words “water” are heard from everywhere.
A statement from Matthew Carter, Group CEO of Depaul International, on the current situation in Ukraine.
