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The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued a Lenten reflection urging Catholics to support Pope Francis' call for prayers for Ukraine as the country continues to resist Russia's invasion. Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the conference, emphasized solidarity with Ukraine, referring to them as a "martyred people."
Archbishop Broglio expressed hope that the United States and the international community would work persistently towards achieving a just peace and ending aggression. He highlighted Pope Francis' 2024 message that courageous negotiations require "boldness" for dialogue.
The reflection coincides with the third anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24 and follows a significant meeting between Ukrainian President Voldymyr Zelenskyy, U.S. President Donald Trump, and Vice President JD Vance regarding future U.S. aid to Ukraine.
Broglio stressed the importance of religious freedom in Ukraine, stating, "As Catholics, we are acutely aware that every past occupation of Ukraine has resulted in various degrees of repression of the Catholic Church in the country; we must not tolerate the forcing of our brothers and sisters underground again." He echoed Pope Francis’ plea for respecting religious freedom: "Please, let no Christian church be abolished directly or indirectly. Churches are not to be touched!"
In addition to prayer, Archbishop Broglio pointed out an opportunity for effective solidarity through the annual USCCB collection for the Church in Central and Eastern Europe on Ash Wednesday. This collection aims to provide direct assistance to struggling communities in Ukraine and over twenty other countries.
He invited American Catholics and people of good will to pray for peace in Ukraine and contribute generously to supporting those affected by the conflict.
Lent begins this year on March 5.
