THE PAPAL VISIT TO UKRAINE / News

Kiev, 24 June 2001
Most Holy Father:
I would like first of all to thank the Apostolic Nuncio, His Excellency Archbishop Nicola Eterovich, for having provided this occasion to be with Your Holiness and to enjoy the fellowship of this meal. These moments will be unforgettable for us.

24.06.2001 (21:37) // Religious Information Service of Ukraine

   We are still at the very beginning of your visit to Ukraine. According to an ancient proverb, it would be unwise to praise the day before the evening comes. But there is one thing that we can surely do without hesitation, and that is to thank you, Most Holy Father, for having come here among us, for visiting our country which has suffered so much in the recent past, and which now with great effort is trying to get back on its feet. And its church is doing the same.

  Many of us lived long years outside the borders of our motherland, some having been deported, others in the diaspora. On the occasion of major celebrations, we would greet one another saying, “Next year we will meet in our free homeland!” Miraculously, this greeting has been realized!

  In a similar way, we bishops of Ukraine, as well as those in the diaspora, have been inviting Your Holiness for a long time to visit our country. When we would meet with you in Rome, Most Holy Father, before leaving we would say, “We will see you next time in Kyiv and Lviv.” Sometimes it seemed as though this would never happen. But, with the help of God, it has happened. We greet you warmly, and with all sincerity we hope that this visit will remain in your heart as one of the most blessed and happy.

  During the century that has just passed, Ukraine underwent enormous suffering, and it earnestly needs a new encounter with Christ. To help our people in this effort is the main duty that we pastors have. We ask you, our Peter, to sustain us in this task.

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