U.S. bishop calls for “bold negotiations” for peace in Ukraine

This was reported by CREDO.

“As we begin the holy season of Lent, a time of prayer, repentance and mercy, we join our Holy Father, Pope Francis, in his solidarity with the 'martyred people of Ukraine,'” said Broglio, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Bishops. ”We pray and hope that the United States, together with the broader international community, will work hard to secure a just peace and an end to aggression.”

“As our Holy Father reminded us in 2024, bold negotiations require the courage to open the door to dialogue,” the hierarch added.

Archbishop Broglio also called for respect for the religious freedom of Ukrainians.

“As Catholics, we are acutely aware that each past occupation of Ukraine led to various repressions of the Catholic Church in the country; we must not tolerate the pushing of our brothers and sisters underground again,” he said. ‘I reiterate Pope Francis’ call for respect for the religious freedom of all Ukrainians: please do not let any Christian church be abolished, directly or indirectly. Churches cannot be touched!”

In conclusion, Archbishop Broglio emphasized the importance of prayer and sacrifice of Catholics for Ukraine during the upcoming Lent. He also announced a collection drive that will be held in American parishes on Ash Wednesday in favor of the Church in Central and Eastern Europe.

“By contributing, U.S. Catholics can be assured that their donation will help directly their brothers and sisters in Ukraine, as well as in more than twenty other countries in the region,” the archbishop assured.

“I invite Catholics in America, in unity with all men and women of goodwill, to pray for peace in Ukraine and to give generously to help this suffering and courageous nation,” he concluded.