We wish that the call “we forgive and ask forgiveness become part of the way of living of every Pole and Ukrainian
Often the appeals remain only on paper. Therefore, I try to ensure that Ukrainians and Poles do everything to their ability to make a Christian call that has built and can save a united Europe “We forgive and ask forgiveness” would become not only a good quote for texts and messages, but also a part of modern cultures, a way of life, thinking, action of every Ukrainian and every Pole!
Patriarch Svyatoslav of the UGCC was reported as saying this on Tuesday, December 5, during a meeting with the academic community and all enthusiasts in the Lviv Polytechnic National University, the Department of Information of the UGCC reports.
The event was initiated by the International Institute of Education, Culture and Relations with the Diaspora, NU Lviv Polytechnic and the Prosvita People's Home.
The dialogue of the UGCC Primate with the academic community was dedicated to the 30th anniversary of proclaiming the Declaration of Polish-Ukrainian forgiveness and reconciliation.
The head of the UGCC has noted that he generally sees an optimistic picture of the future development of Ukraine and its relations with other states, in particular with Poland, and believes in the bright future of Polish-Ukrainian relations.
“Despite the acute and savory political, historical and religious moments in history between the two peoples, we must always go to meet each other and look for what unites us, not divides us," he said.
Patriarch Sviatoslav paid special attention to the role of St. Paul John Paul II in one of the stages of the construction of Europe.
“When the Polish and German episcopate came to Rome, he could not conceive the Polish-German relations without the prospect of European integration of Ukraine. However, he understood that the Poles and Ukrainians survived through the two Polish-Ukrainian wars of the twentieth century with mutual resentment and wounds. In order to heal the memory of the Ukrainian and Polish peoples so that they could live in a single, united, cultural and Christian space, he, as the successor to the Apostle Peter, urges us to reconciliation,” said the head of the UGCC.
Patriarch Sviatoslav called on Ukrainian youth to communicate with Poland for greater reconciliation and understanding. According to him, the challenges facing young Ukrainians are typical not only for our country, but also for Poland and Europe.
“Today, young people in Europe feel marginalized. The European structures have been already so “purified” that the young people are not interested there, because everything is done there. They feel bored in Western Europe. And in Ukraine, there is a great deal of work to be done. The Ukrainian state needs someone to roll his sleeves and set off building the country. And who will do this, if not you?! So do not cherish the illusions that they are waiting for you with open arms! No, they do not know what to do with their young people ... Therefore, conquer the world and learn,” His Beatitude Sviatoslav noted the important role and the present situation of the European and Ukrainian youth.
Answering an urgent question for the Ukrainian society, the Head of the Church also spoke about the problems of the emigration process. According to him, today it is an element of culture, not only in Ukraine, but also in many states. Since the movement of people around the world is not always provoked by socio-economic factors.
In addition, the Head of the UGCC emphasized that European countries (and not only) have a great interest in diplomacy when they are attended by representatives / delegations of the UGCC.
“Our Church is diplomatic in international relations. Today, we have different churches in Ukraine, to which God gave a different opportunity to serve for the Ukrainian cause. We have a great network around the world. In such meetings, I feel at the frontline information warfare against Ukraine and Europe. This is exactly the way we can serve Ukraine and show others what we want. In addition, this is a great way for authorities from different countries to hear the ordinary people we represent,” concluded His Beatitude Sviatoslav.
As reported, on October 11-12, 2017, the events were held in Rome to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the proclamation of the Declaration of Polish-Ukrainian Forgiveness and Reconciliation. The central event was the awarding of “Capitals of the Polish-Ukrainian Union”, which is conferred upon individuals and organizations that contribute to the understanding between the peoples of Central and Eastern Europe. The first such award was given to Pope John Paul II, on the grave of St. Peter's Cathedral on October 11, the head of the UGCC headed a prayer service on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the first meeting of representatives of the Synod of Bishops of the UGCC and the Polish episcopate, when the Declaration of Forgiveness and Reconciliation was proclaimed.
