Ukrainian Major Archbishop responds to government threat
(Vatican Radio) The head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGCC), Major Archbishop
Sviatoslav Shevchuk of Kyiv-Halych, responded on Monday to a letter from the government
threatening to rescind the legal status of the UGCC. The government’s threat appears
to be an attempt to pressure the Church because of its pastoral support of Ukrainians
taking part in protests against the government.
In a press conference, Major
Archbishop Sviatoslav said that the Church is not directly involved in the political
process. He insisted, though, that it cannot stand aside when its faithful ask for
spiritual care. To be with his faithful is the duty of the priest, a duty connected
with the very mission of the Church. “Our church has always been true to this mission
that Christ entrusted to our Church” the Major Archbishop said, “and will remain so
for the future and despite any threats.”
Pope Francis has expressed his prayerful
support for the Ukrainian people. In a letter dated 23 December, Vatican Secretary
of State Pietro Parolin assured the “beloved Ukrainian people” of the Holy Father’s
“prayers for peace and harmony.”