On September 16-19, the traditional annual meeting of the Eastern Catholic bishops of Europe is taking place in Oradea, Romania. The theme of this year's meeting: “Relations between Bishops and Priests - Brotherhood and Humanity.” After the report of Cardinal Gugerotti, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches, His Beatitude Sviatoslav took the floor.
This was reported by the Information Department of the UGCC.
“Although Ukraine is now living in very difficult times, we are proud of our clergy, for they are ready to give their lives for their people. At the same time, they cannot get anything from said people. Especially in central and south-eastern Ukraine, the clergy live below the poverty line,” said His Beatitude Sviatoslav.
He noted that there are parishes in Ukraine where people have changed by almost 100%.
“Everyone left, but others came because of the priest's testimony and the social and pastoral service he offers,” said the head of the UGCC.
He noted that the bishop must support the priest and his family.
“Therefore, for us (bishops - Ed.), this relationship with the priest is truly maternal,” explained His Beatitude Sviatoslav.
The head of the UGCC explained that there are certain forms and mechanisms to support priests and their families. We are talking about retreats as well as diocesan institutions or training for the permanent formation of the clergy.
“Usually, we gather priests without their families, but at least twice a year, we do so with all their families and children. And this is really an unparalleled opportunity for a bishop to be together, to pray together and listen to each other,” His Beatitude Sviatoslav emphasized.