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Cardinal Mario Grech has appealed for governments to protect vulnerable Ukrainian refugees crossing into the European Union, with the number of people believed to have fled the Russian invasion to date thought to be 3.5 million. The Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, who was in Poland for a four day visit, told reporters that “Women and children must be 'protected' from human traffickers when they arrive in our countries”.
Cardinal Mario visited two reception facilities run by the Diocese of Warsaw during his visit, witnessing the work being done St Margaret’s Parish in Łomianki, a small town near Warsaw, where 2,300 Ukrainian refugees—mostly women and children—are being hosted by parishioners in their own homes. Cardinal Grech listened to the stories of Ukrainian refugees, especially those of the children, invoking God’s blessing upon them. He also highlighted Pope Francis’ closeness with those helped by the 'Dobre Miejsce' Centre, a diocesan house that has been turned into a home for 100 refugees.
Speaking earlier this week Pope Francis lamented the shelling of innocent civilians, including the elderly, children, and pregnant mothers:
“All this is inhuman! Indeed, it is also sacrilegious because it goes against the sacredness of human life, especially against defenseless human life, which must be respected and protected, not eliminated, and this comes before any strategy! Let us not forget it is inhuman and sacrilegious cruelty!”
The Pope also urged Europeans to “be close to these martyred people” welcoming them wholeheartedly and generously in the weeks and months to come.
The United Nations Refugee Agency said on Sunday that over 3.5 million people have fled Ukraine since 24 February, the day that Russia invaded. Poland has welcomed around 2 million people, leading to a population increase of 17% in the capital Warsaw, which previously had 1.8 million residents. Eyewitnesses describe heartbreaking scenes at Ukraine’s EU borders, with men, who are barred from leaving Ukraine, accompanying women and children to the border, where they bid heart wrenching goodbyes to their families.
On Friday 25 March, the Feast of the Annunciation, Pope Francis will consecrate Ukraine and Russia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, calling on the intercession of Our Blessed Mother for peace. This will be an important day for us all, Bishop Richard will celebrate a Holy Hour for Peace at Arundel Cathedral at 6pm, with parishes across our Diocese invited to join the Holy Father though prayers for peace and Holy Hours within their own respective churches. There will be a specific prayer for peace in Ukraine during the Solemn Intercessions at the Celebration of the Passion of the Lord on Good Friday and parishes are encouraged to facilitate times for prayer on Good Friday evening.
