It appears that war is inevitable in Ukraine.
When I spent time in that beautiful country, I quickly learned that Ukrainians overwhelmingly wished to affiliate with Western Europe rather than with Russia, but that this desire was not unanimous. I spent time in Western Ukraine which suffered greatly during Soviet times, is predominantly Catholic, and where there is a great desire to renew Ukrainian culture. Eastern Ukraine, closer to Russia, benefited greatly from industrialization during Soviet times (that is where Chernobyl was located), is predominantly Orthodox or atheist, and is more favorable toward Russia.
While teaching English during the summer of 2006, all my students were from Western Ukraine, but one student came from the east. She did not speak Ukrainian, only Russian. I quickly got a sense that the students were appalled at this: how can she call herself Ukrainian and not even speak our language? I left Ukraine knowing that there was a deep divide in the nation, and a struggle between east and west when it came to its future.
I felt that by teaching English to Catholic university students, I was providing not only knowledge of a language, but a key that would allow them to better integrate with the West.
During today’s General Audience at the Vatican, Pope Francis stated the following in regards to the worsening situation in Ukraine:
“My heart aches greatly at the worsening situation in Ukraine. Despite the diplomatic efforts of the last few weeks, increasingly alarming scenarios are opening up. Like me, many people all over the world are feeling anguish and concern. Once again the peace of all is threatened by partisan interests. I would like to appeal to those with political responsibility to examine their consciences seriously before God, who is the God of peace and not of war; who is the Father of all, not just of some, who wants us to be brothers and not enemies. I pray that all the parties involved refrain from any action that would cause even more suffering to the people, destabilising coexistence between nations and bringing international law into disrepute.
And now I would like to appeal to everyone, believers and non-believers alike. Jesus taught us that the diabolical senselessness of violence is answered with God’s weapons, with prayer and fasting. I invite everyone to make next 2 March, Ash Wednesday, a Day of Fasting for Peace. I encourage believers in a special way to dedicate themselves intensely to prayer and fasting on that day. May the Queen of Peace preserve the world from the madness of war.”
We pray for peace. Amen.
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