Hundreds of Catholics gathered Feb. 28 for a midday Mass for Peace and Justice in Ukraine and Throughout the World, celebrated by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More in Arlington.
“On Feb. 24, our world woke to the devastating news that Russian forces had invaded Ukraine and started the madness of war,” Bishop Burbidge said. “As we look at the horrific images, we know the situation remains dire. I join with my brother bishops, Christian leaders and believers throughout the world, all people of goodwill, in denouncing this violence as a grave and evil act, as an affront to human dignity, and in calling for solidarity like we see here today, where people of faith are united in prayer for the end of this violence and for the peace for which we long.
“No doubt our hearts are saddened as we look at the terrible images from Ukraine, and see death, suffering and violence,” he said. “But we are blessed to be believers who do not despair.”
Bishop Burbidge said that at times like these, “people ask, ‘What can I do?’ Pope Francis has answered this question for us. He says that at a time like this, we can use the weapons God gave us, namely prayer and fasting. For that reason, he has asked all Catholics on this Ash Wednesday to offer our prayers and fasting for peace in Ukraine and throughout the world, for the end of this violence and war, for a banishing of tears and for the wisdom our world leaders need to continue to use diplomacy to the path of peace.
“We pray also for Ukrainian communities right here in our diocese and throughout our country and world, who are worrying about their loved ones in their homeland, that in Christ, they will find the consolation and grace and strength they need.”
Among those attending the Mass were Roxolana Wynar of Arlington and her mother, Tatianna Gajecky of Lakewood, Colo., who said she is visiting the Washington area to gather with the larger Ukrainian community in the United States to protest against the war. The women had their photo taken with Bishop Burbidge after the Mass, and said they were moved by the support of the Catholic community and so many Americans who have been joining protests in support of Ukraine.
Gajecky said she was born in a displaced persons camp in Europe after her parents fled Ukraine in 1944; she has friends and relatives in Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, who have been taking shelter from Russian bombing in the city’s deep subway system, making quick runs back to their homes for food and supplies. Gajecky said after her family left Ukraine, they eventually settled in Chicago, where she grew up among the large Ukrainian community.
“We need America’s help,” Wynar said. “Please ask Catholics to pray a rosary for Ukraine. Our Lady can stop the war.”
