Warning Ukrainian bishops: the peace is a farce!

Warning Ukrainian bishops: the peace is a farce!

In an urgent explanation, the Ukrainian bishops have given a clear warning regarding possible peace negotiations for Ukraine. The bishops, which are currently gathering in Toronto to the constant synod of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGKK), warn of an unjust peace that they call "cynical farce", which could lead to even greater injustice. These words are heard because they were published on the third anniversary of Russian attack on Ukraine. The bishops emphasize that Ukraine suffered massive destruction during the war: over 3,500 educational institutions, more than 1,200 hospitals and 670 churches were devastated, and the suffering of the civilian population is immeasurable. They report on tens of thousands of dead, countless injured and traumatized people as well as hundreds of thousands of refugees.

The situation of Ukrainian children who have been kidnapped in Russia for “re -education” is particularly scandalous. Another serious point that the bishops address is religious persecution in the occupied areas, where 67 clergymen of different denominations were murdered. Despite these massive challenges, the Ukrainians believe in a fair future and the victory of the "divine truth". In their explanation, the bishops emphasize the strength and cohesion of the Ukrainian society, which suffers from war effects, but nevertheless developed a culture of solidarity and help. "Christ has risen! The Ukraine will rise!" is the hopeful message of the synod.

The role of the bishop's synod

The Bishops' Synod itself is an important consulting body of the Catholic Church, which goes back to the second Vatican Council and supports the Pope in its management task. The ordinary meetings take place every three years, while extraordinary synods are specially called up to current challenges. A total of around 200 bishops from all over the world take part in these meetings in order to discuss the topics of great importance for the church. As katholisch.de , the bishop's synod cannot take binding decisions, but the speeches and recommendations are of great importance for pastoral. The current synod in Toronto will not only be a forum for the exchange, but also a significant step in order to illustrate the unique role of the church in the current crisis situation of Ukraine.