'We are the Church, and our strength lies in unity,' stated Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas, the Apostolic Nuncio in Ukraine, regarding the collaboration between Roman and Greek Catholic bishops in Ukraine amidst the times of war.
In a conversation with CREDO, the Nuncio shared his perspective on recent joint retreats and meetings of UGCC (Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church) and RCC (Roman Catholic Church) bishops. He emphasized that these encounters were an opportunity for prayer and discussions on various significant matters.
'It's beneficial for bishops to communicate, ponder, and orient themselves on joint action. I genuinely state that it was a good meeting. It was very specific and productive. Bishops also had meetings with representatives of charitable organizations regarding assistance, not only humanitarian. I am certain that we cannot work solely by human reasoning. Therefore, being in a place of prayer like Zarvanytsia inspired us and provided grace for further actions,' he said.
Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas also mentioned his meeting with Pope Francis on November 9: 'He is wholeheartedly with Ukraine. He appreciates every meeting with Ukrainian bishops because it's important for him to hear directly from them. I mentioned this to them, though they already know it, but it's important to remind them because it matters. I know, and we all see, that there are various reactions in Ukraine to the Pope's words and initiatives, but I emphasize that the heart of the Pope is with Ukraine. It's essential to talk about it; it's crucial to emphasize again and again. We are the Church, and our strength lies in unity with God and unity among us.'