From October 1 to 3, 2025, Brussels, Belgium, hosts the autumn plenary assembly of the Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Union (COMECE). This assembly will focus on discussing the role of the EU in the current international landscape, which is marked by instability, a lack of multilateral dialogue, and increased military and economic competition among states.
Official observers from the Head of the UGCC are participating in the event. They include Bishop Stepan Sus, head of the Pastoral-Migration Department of the UGCC, and Fr. Ivan Danchevsky, syncellus of the Paris Eparchy in the Benelux countries, as reported by the UGCC Department for Information.
During his speech, Bishop Mariano Crociata, President of the Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Union, highlighted the situation in Ukraine. He emphasized, “The call for peace and the desire for it for this suffering nation must remain at the center of our words and commitments in all places where we can spread our prayers and initiatives.”
Additionally, Bishop Mariano Crociata shared his impressions from the COMECE delegation's visit to Ukraine, which occurred from July 16 to 18, 2025. He expressed his steadfast support for the Ukrainian people and solidarity with those suffering from the consequences of the aggressive war initiated by Russia.
In his report, Bishop Stepan Sus presented the current situation in Ukraine, discussing the challenges faced by the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. He stated, "We now understand that the war is not distant or far away in Ukraine, but right here, at the borders of the European Union. Every day, Ukrainians are fighting and sacrificing their lives for our shared Christian values, which are the foundation of the EU: freedom, democracy, and respect for the dignity of human life."
While addressing the members of COMECE, the bishop expressed his gratitude, saying, "Thank you for being the unwavering voice of the courageous Ukrainian people in your countries. Thank you for your willingness to support our Church and help heal the wounds of war. Solidarity is what prevents us from feeling alone and empowers us to confidently face the numerous challenges posed by Russian aggression."
During the assembly, meetings were also held with Dr. Klaus Welle, Special Advisor to the Commissioner for Defense and Space and former Secretary General of the European Parliament; Antonella Sberna, Vice President of the European Parliament; and Magnus Brunner, Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration.