Ukrainian Oblate Ministers in Time of War

(Editor’s note: We have received several messages similar to this one from a Ukrainian Oblate since the beginning of the Russian invasion. Some are re-printed here in order to provide you with a feel for the situation on the ground in Ukraine. As usual, this message asks for your continued prayers for the people and Oblates in Ukraine.)

By Fr. Vadim Dorosh, OMI

Glory be to Jesus Christ!

My name is Fr. Vadim Dorosh OMI. I’m a military chaplain. I want to share with you some information about the situation in Ukraine. First of all, I thank God for the strength and courage of Oblates in every region serving in Ukraine, not leaving their parishioners during the full-scale war with Russia, which attacked Ukraine on February 24 at around 5 am. War is taking place in all regions of Ukraine, but with special cruelty in some areas such as Kiev, Kharkiv, and the Donetsk southern and northern regions. The Russians are bombing civilians, destroying infrastructure of cities, and there are even cases of priests and civilians. being shot. Children, women, and pensioners are being killed. There are millions of refugees and our defenders are heroically protecting the Motherland.

We are missionaries of the region and though there are many different situations we are united and trying to help each other. Despite the shelling in Kyiv or Chernihiv, we celebrate Eucharist with the intention of victory over the enemy and for peace in the world. All over Ukraine, millions of Ukrainians are standing for the protection of the Motherland and democratic values. We serve here side-by-side, helping organize assistance with food, medicine, and in the defense of our cities and villages. As a chaplain, I also help defenders by lifting them up in spirit and giving confession opportunity. Also, in our Tivrivsky Sanctuary of the Mother of God, we accept refugees from different parts of Ukraine.

All of you who read this, please pray that we defeat this evil. Pray for us to stand up. Don’t be silent on all these crimes against humanity and the right of Ukrainians to live free. Glory to Ukraine! I am proud to belong to such a strong and brave people! Virgin Mary pray for us!