His Beatitude Sviatoslav Consecrates the Caritas Social Center in Kyiv: “This Day Crowns Many Years of Work”
On March 19, the Head of the UGCC, His Beatitude Sviatoslav, consecrated the Caritas Kyiv Social Center. The Patriarch was concelebrated by the auxiliary bishops of the Kyiv Archeparchy, Bishop Yosyf Milyan and Bishop Andriy Khimyak, and the auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Freiburg, Dr. Peter Birkhofer. The event was attended by representatives of the German Embassy in Ukraine, Caritas Kyiv’s partners from Germany, and Caritas Ukraine President Tetyana Stavnycha.
“This day crowns many years of work and dedication of Caritas workers in Kyiv and is the fruit of solidarity and generosity of our benefactors,” said His Beatitude Sviatoslav, “This is the moment when we feel the profound support of Universal Catholic Church to Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. Through the consecration of this social center, we are establishing a new space — a space filled with love among the great sea of hatred that is flooding our land.”
The new Social Center in Kyiv, located at 15 Berlinskoho Street will provide services to children and families facing difficult life circumstances, children and families of fallen soldiers, internally displaced families, the elderly and people with disabilities.
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“We want every person who comes here to feel comforted and happy, loved and well-cared for, regardless of the difficulties and problems they may be experiencing,” the Primate emphasized.
He also reminded that this space is the fruit of cooperation between different levels of Caritas Ukraine and Caritas Germany and personally expressed his gratitude to the German partners present, namely, Dr. Peter Birkhofer, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Freiburg, Dr. Oliver Müller, Director of International Programs of Caritas Germany, and Mr. Stephen Feldman, Director of Finance of Caritas Germany.
“May this new social center become a venue of joy, fellowship, and new opportunities for future generations,” said Bishop Peter Birkhofer. “Thank you for the opportunity to be here today in this difficult time of war. May this center be a source of hope in times of trial.” Bishop Birkhofer conveyed greetings from the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Freiburg and expressed his respect and hope for cooperation.
President of Caritas Ukraine Ms. Tetyana Stavnycha mentioned that Caritas has been operating in Kyiv for over 30 years. “We hope that this social center will consolidate the work that has been done so far and expand it,” said Ms. Stavnycha.
The UGCC Department for InformationPhoto by the press service of the Kyiv Archeparchy
