On December 30, in the Open Church program on Zhyve Television, Patriarch Sviatoslav shared important results of 2024, calling it “a year of historic meetings.”
This was reported by the Information Department of the UGCC.
“The year was very active and eventful. Yet, perhaps the most important thing that will remain in history is the meetings,” said the head of the UGCC. ”When people meet, they share their inner spiritual world.”
The Patriarch spoke about important meetings with children, the military, mothers and women who lost loved ones in the war, as well as with Ukrainian communities in different European countries, where people are constantly waiting for the support of their Church.
“I stood for hours, blessing people. Every fifth person asked to hug me. This is a wounded people looking for warmth and support from the Church,” His Beatitude Sviatoslav shared his emotions from pastoral visits to Germany, France, Poland and other countries.
The meetings with political leaders, in particular with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor, were also of particular importance.
“These were historical events,” said His Beatitude Sviatoslav, emphasizing that the meeting of the Head of the UGCC with the President of France was held for the first time since 1970, and with the Chancellor of Germany - for the first time ever.
According to the Head of the UGCC, the voice of the Church has an important role in advocating for Ukraine in the international arena.
“We are the voice of our people, and this voice is heard in many countries,” he said, recalling meetings with state leaders and representatives of churches.
In particular, His Beatitude Sviatoslav spoke about the importance of cooperation with the Vatican and the support of Pope Francis and Cardinal Parolin, who paid a visit to Ukraine in 2024: “The open doors of the Vatican and the diplomatic efforts of Pope Francis are important tools to support Ukraine. These are not only public statements, but also deep confidential diplomacy that brings tangible results, such as humanitarian aid or the return of children.”
Among the important meetings in 2024, the Head of the UGCC also named two - with Pope Francis in the Vatican and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew in Phanar.
His Beatitude Sviatoslav noted that the international activity of the Church is an important factor in supporting Ukraine, both on the humanitarian front and at the diplomatic level.
“We will continue to shake the world with our presence, activity and word in the name of Ukraine and our people,” summarized the Head of the UGCC.