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Basilian Sister Lucia Murashko, based in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, has expressed gratitude and an invitation to Pope Leo XIV amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. "Thank you for understanding us and supporting us," she conveyed, adding a heartfelt request: "Come to us."
Speaking from her monastery on May 16, Sister Lucia shared insights into life near the frontlines of the war. She highlighted the significance of a potential papal visit to Ukraine as a symbol of hope and solidarity. “Even if it seems very dangerous, it’s like giving us strength to continue praying for peace and for the victory,” she stated.
The region around Zaporizhzhia remains partially under Russian control. Occupation authorities have banned several religious organizations, including the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGCC), Knights of Columbus, and Caritas. Two UGCC priests were abducted but later released through Vatican mediation after enduring captivity.
Sister Lucia praised Pope Leo's early efforts in his papacy for clearly identifying the victim and aggressor in the conflict. This clarity has been uplifting for Ukrainians facing international fatigue over their prolonged struggle. "We feel like people try to forget about our pain and suffering," she noted.
She urged global awareness of others' suffering: “Please do not forget about your neighbors.” Despite dangers such as drone strikes and explosions that frequently disturb their lives, Sister Lucia and her fellow sisters continue providing aid while experiencing personal risks.
In December, they narrowly escaped harm during a deadly strike while celebrating St. Nicholas Day with children. More recently, nearby attacks shattered windows and injured locals receiving pastoral support from them.
Despite these challenges, Sister Lucia remains resilient: “Life is flourishing here.” She recounted emotional moments like villagers crying during Easter celebrations due to long-awaited blessings of traditional baskets after three years.
Villagers prioritized requests for animal food over personal needs when asked what they required most urgently—a selflessness echoed by wounded soldiers apologizing despite dire conditions at medical units where volunteers assist them.
Reflecting on meeting Pope Leo personally someday soon herself? "I should kiss his hand first," she mused warmly before extending another invitation: “Welcome to Ukraine.”
Gina Christian reports multimedia content for OSV News; follow updates via X @GinaJesseReina.
