Originally Published on OMIWORLD.ORG

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By Paweł GOMULAK, OMI

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 Announcement Regarding the Detention of Two Oblates in Belarus

The Polish Province of the Missionaries of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, overseeing the Oblate Mission in Belarus, confirms the detention of two Oblate missionaries by Belarusian authorities in the Diocese of Vitebsk. Fathers Andrzej YUCHNEVICH, OMI and Pavel LEMEKH, OMI serve at the diocesan shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Šumilin. They are currently awaiting trial and are in Belarusian custody, reportedly for alleged subversive activities against the Belarusian state.

Father Andrzej YUCHNEVICH OMI, the superior of the Oblate Mission in Belarus, publicly expressed solidarity with the Ukrainian people at the outset of the Russian Federation’s invasion of Ukraine, urging prayers for an end to the war.

Father YUCHNEVICH assumed the presidency of the Major Superiors, Delegates, and Representatives of Male and Female Institutes and Societies of Apostolic Life in Belarus in May 2022.
Given the circumstances in Belarus, we request your prayers for their intentions.

Fr. Paweł Gomulak OMI
Media Coordinator of the Polish Province (spokesperson)

Belarus: Message from the Superior General

The Superior General sends a message of support and solidarity to the Provincial of the Polish Province.

Dear Father Marek OCHLAK, OMI, Provincial,

We are deeply concerned about the news of the imprisonment of two of our brothers in Belarus. At the General House, we are fervently praying for their well-being and for all of you. I, along with all members of the General Administration, extend our solidarity and support. Please let us know if there’s anything more we can do to assist our brothers. I am aware that the entire charismatic family is also praying earnestly for them. If you have the chance to communicate with our brothers, please pass on our warmest greetings and reaffirm our support during these difficult times.

May the Immaculate Virgin and our blessed saints lead our prayers for the swift release of our brothers, ensuring their health and safety as they continue our missionary zeal.
In Christ and the Immaculate Mary,

Your brother
Luis Ignacio ROIS ALONSO, OMI
Superior General