A Note from the Provincial on Ukraine

Dear brothers sand sisters in Christ: As tensions in Ukraine continue to rise, the Redemptorist Missionaries in that region are receiving a considerable number of displaced families looking for food, evacuation centers, safe zones, and transportation services.  A controversial decision by the Ukrainian government to cut pensions and subsidies (due to dwindling resources) to those living in the rebel-held territory prompted the wave of displacement. Thousands moved from their home to cities in hopes of finding jobs and accessing social services from government and charitable organizations, like The Redemptorists. We don’t know how long the conflict will last. We do know that the support of our Redemptorist Missionaries is vital in the region. Ordinary people are the real victims who pay for the follies of war with their own lives.
 

Personally, through my presence at the world-wide Congregational Meetings, I have come to meet several of our Missionaries from the Ukraine. At two European Young Adult gatherings I had the privilege of getting to know numerous young people from the Ukraine and have admired their deep conviction to the faith. At one Conference, I wore a blue and gold shirt that resembled the Ukrainian Flag . . . and was therfore adopted by the young people as a member of their group. I have followed recent posts on FaceBook written by some of these young people and marveled at their courage, bravery, and trust in God.
 

While many organizations in the United States will be asking for your help, we are responding to those who have called and written to ask how they can help The Redemptorists! 100% of all donations received will be forwarded to the Redemptorist Missionaries in Ukraine who are dealing directly with those impacted by this war and for our Missionaries in Poland who are dealing with the influx of refugees fleeing this conflict.
 

Now is not the time for thoughts and prayers for the people of Ukraine. Now is the time to pray that thoughtful nations, and an all too often silent world, will not look away when people are being viciously attacked. Covid has turned us inward. Now is the time to focus outward and intercede for the Ukrainian people and for world leaders who have the power to bring an end to this war.
 

Many have asked what they can do . . . your donation will help to demonstrate your solidarity with those who struggle to find peace during these difficult times. All checks should be made payable to: Redemptorist Fathers and mailed to the Ukraine Relief Fund at 3112 7th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017. Please write in Ukraine Relief Fund on the memo line. You can also give securely online, just follow the prompts. Thank you for your support of our brothers and sisters in Ukraine.May Our Mother of Perpetual Help watch over all those affected by this senseless act.
 

In the Redeemer,

Very Rev. Paul Borowski, C.Ss.R.

Provincial Superior