Letter to Clergy from Most Rev Peter A Comensoli – Advent Appeal for Ukraine
22 February 2024
To the Clergy of the Archdiocese of Melbourne
Dear Bishops, Fathers and Deacons,
My warm and fraternal greetings to you as we journey toward the passion, death and resurrection of our Lord and Saviour.
In two days‘ time, the difficult second–year anniversary of Ukraine’s invasion by Russia will come to be. In these past two years we have kept the people of Ukraine in our hearts and prayers, and sought ways to support those who have found refuge here in Australia – and particularly Victoria.
The words and stories shared by Bishop Mykola Bychok, bishop of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Saints Peter and Paul of Melbourne, deeply resonated with the Australian Bishops, and certainly inspired my own participation last year in a small delegation that visited the cities of Lviv, Kyiv and the neighbouring communities of Irpin and Bucha. During this trip we heard first–hand of both the pain and loss – and of the great courage and hope held by the Ukrainian peoples.
As you know, the Archdiocese of Melbourne launched an Appeal during Advent to raise awareness, and provide some practical relief, for those in need. I am very pleased to say that through this Appeal we had over 1000 donors – with some parishes uniting as one singular contribution. To date, we have received $131,549.00 a significant amount. On behalf of the Archdiocese, I will be bring this amount to a total figure of $150,000.00; offered to Bishop Mykola via the Ukraine Future Limited with the understanding these monies will directly support people who need support in re–establishing their lives and livelihoods after experiences of trauma and displacement.
Please know of my deepest gratitude for the energy and support you have brought to this Appeal through our Parishes and beyond.
May we continue to hold our Ukrainian brothers and sisters in our prayers, and seek the intercession of Our Blessed Mother, Queen of Peace, that her Son, the Prince of Peace, will remain close to those who need it most.
With every grace and blessing, I remain,
Yours sincerely in Christ Jesus,
Most Rev Peter A Comensoli Archbishop of Melbourne
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