As Pope Francis announced at the Angelus on Sunday, March 6, two Cardinals of the Roman Curia are on their way to Ukraine to help those in need.

Newsroom (08/03/2022 2:00 PM, Gaudium Press) During the Angelus on Sunday, March 6, Pope Francis announced that the Holy See is willing to do everything to obtain peace in Ukraine. Two Cardinals are on their way to the area of conflict.

On Monday, March 7, a detailed statement from the Holy See Press Office clarified details regarding the mission and objectives of the trio. Cardinals Konrad Krajewski and Michael Czerny, respectively the Pontifical Almoner and the acting prefect of the Dicastery for the Service of Integral Human Development.

“The cardinals will bring aid to people in need and will represent not only the Pope, but also all Christians who wish to express their solidarity with the Ukrainian people,” the document underlined. 

Cardinal Krajewski left on Monday, March 7, for the border between Poland and Ukraine. His mission is to visit refugees and volunteers in shelters and homes.

On Tuesday, March 8, Cardinal Czerny travelled to Hungary to visit the centers that welcome refugees.

“Both are headed to Ukraine and, in light of the situation, intend to reach the country in the coming days,” the Press release states.

The Vatican’s intention with sending two Cardinals is to work for peace in Ukraine, drawing attention to similar situations occurring around the world.

Francis had expressed his intentions on February 27, when he spoke out about the conflict in Ukraine: “With a heart broken by what is happening in Ukraine — and let us not forget the wars in other parts of the world, such as in Yemen, in Syria, in Ethiopia… — I repeat: Silence all weapons! God is with the peacemakers, not with those who use violence.”

Another assignment of the Cardinals is to verify and ensure that African and Asian refugees living in Ukraine are given shelter without suffering discrimination or disrespect. (FM)

Compiled by Gustavo Kralj