Ukrainians facing their first Christmas at war with Russia are coping with frequent electricity outages, spotty cell phone service — and the worrisome sound of air raid sirens. Through it all, they cling to the hope that the light Jesus Christ brought into a dark world will shine on them.
During February and March, Warsaw train stations were overflowing with women and children, refugees from the war in Ukraine.
According to Pope Francis, the “tragedy of the war” taking place in eastern Europe “leaves us astonished,” and it is threatening humanity, all because of a “perverse abuse of power” that is condemning innocent people to endless suffering.
Although Russia’s Catholics hold different views about the conflict in Ukraine, a spokesman for the country’s bishops said all are united in welcoming Pope Francis’ plan to consecrate their country to the Immaculate Heart of Mary March 25 in a service at the Vatican.
Residents and business owners in Brighton Beach — a community where Russians and Ukrainians have been living peacefully side by side for decades — are displaying their support for Ukraine in a variety of ways since the Russian invasion began February 24.
Kateryna Koval of Brighton Beach was relieved when she heard that the Biden Administration has extended the Temporary Protection Status (TPS) program to include Ukrainians living here in the U.S. who do not want to go back with the Russian invasion going on. “Good thing. It gives peace of mind,” she said.
