Cardinal Matteo Zuppi meets with children from occupied territories vacationing in Italy

This was reported by the press service of the Apostolic Exarchate for Ukrainians of the Byzantine Rite in Italy.

The meeting took place at the Fernandes Center, which hosted the “Children at Home” camp from August 1 to 15.

Several high-ranking guests who played a role in the release of Ukrainian children and adults from Russian captivity also attended the meeting alongside the cardinal. Among those present were Andrii Yurash, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Holy See; General Andrii Pasternak, head of the Joint Center of the Security Service of Ukraine; Archbishop Pietro Lagnese of Capua; Bishop Pietro Lagnese of Caserta; Bishop Angelo Spinillo of Aversa; Don Marco Pagniello, Director of Caritas Italy; Pasquale Marrandino, Mayor of Castel Volturno; Sister Paula Germano, Director of Caritas of the Archdiocese of Capua; Antonio Casale, Director of Migrantes of the Archdiocese of Capua; and Fr. Marian Lemchuk, the Ukrainian priest for the community in the Archdiocese of Capua.

Cardinal Zuppi's presence served as an important sign of support from the Catholic Church and all of Italy for the participants. For children who have endured occupation, the loss of family members, and the captivity of loved ones, this meeting represented a moment of sincere care and support.