Aleteia logoAleteia logoAleteia
Sunday 22 December |
Saint of the Day: Bl. Jutta of Diessenberg
Aleteia logo
Church
separateurCreated with Sketch.

‘Absurd and cruel war’: Pope marks 1-year anniversary of Ukraine invasion

Pope Francis greets faithful from Ukraine

Photo by Andreas SOLARO / AFP

Kathleen N. Hattrup - published on 02/22/23

"May the Lord forgive so many crimes and so much violence."

Help Aleteia continue its mission by making a tax-deductible donation. In this way, Aleteia's future will be yours as well.

Donate with just 3 clicks

*Your donation is tax deductible!

For many months now, Pope Francis has called for prayers for Ukraine in every public audience and address.

Here’s what he said after the general audience on this February 22.

The day after tomorrow, on 24 February, it will be one year since the invasion of Ukraine, since the beginning of this absurd and cruel war. A sad anniversary! The toll of dead, wounded, refugees and displaced persons, destruction, economic and social damage speaks for itself.

May the Lord forgive so many crimes and so much violence. He is the God of peace. Let us remain close to the tormented Ukrainian people, who continue to suffer, and let us ask ourselves: has everything possible been done to stop the war?

I appeal to those who have authority over nations to make a concrete commitment to end the conflict, to achieve a cease-fire and to start peace negotiations. What is built on rubble will never be a true victory!

Tags:
Pope FrancisUkraine
Aleteia exists thanks to your donations

Help us to continue our mission of sharing Christian news and inspiring stories. Please make a donation today! Take advantage of the end of the year to get a tax deduction for 2024.

2025-Aleteia-Pilgrimage-300×250-1.png
Daily prayer
And today we celebrate...




Top 10
See More
Newsletter
Get Aleteia delivered to your inbox. Subscribe here.