On August 23, on the eve of Ukraine’s Independence Day, the Pope mentioned Ukraine several times during a meeting with pilgrims. In particular, Francis called to pray for the country and entrusted it to the intercession of St. Bartholomew. This is reported by the Ukrainian service of Vatican News.
“In a few days, you will celebrate the feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Czestochowa,” said the Pope. “May she, to whom the faithful make pilgrimages, as to the house of their beloved mother, be a role model for you in listening and humbly reflecting on the words of Jesus Christ. In this way, you will bear a concrete testimony of love for your neighbor, especially for the Ukrainian people, who are suffering from war,” he told the audience from Poland.
For the second time, Francis mentioned the war in Ukraine at the conclusion of the audience.
“To the intercession of St. Bartholomew we entrust dear Ukraine, which is going through such severe trials because of the war. Brothers and sisters, let us pray for our Ukrainian brothers and sisters. They suffer a lot: war is cruel. Many children are missing, many have died… Let’s pray, please, and let’s not forget about long-suffering Ukraine. Today is an important date for their country,” the Pope said.
It should be recalled that on August 21, the Pope discussed the war in Ukraine with the head of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Mark Milley.
