President of Ukraine to Pope Leo XIV: We Hope That Metropolitan Sheptytsky Will Be Given Due Recognition
During an audience with Pope Leo XIV at Castel Gandolfo on July 9, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted the deep reverence the Ukrainian people hold for Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky — the former head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, who saved Jews during World War II and defended the Christian faith with tireless devotion.
“I spoke to His Holiness about the veneration Ukrainian society has for Andrey Sheptytsky — his courageous actions, especially his rescue of Jews during World War II and his steadfast defense of the Christian faith. We hope that Metropolitan Sheptytsky’s legacy and accomplishments will receive the recognition they deserve,” the President wrote in a post on Facebook.
Read also:
Pope meets with President of Ukraine
President Zelensky also thanked the Pope for his support of Ukrainian children, particularly those who were rescued from Russian captivity. He emphasized the importance of the warm hospitality and care shown to Ukrainian children undergoing rehabilitation in Italy.
The meeting also touched on the Vatican’s role in efforts to secure the return of deported Ukrainian children, as well as the Holy See’s willingness to serve as a platform for future peace talks. President Zelensky extended an invitation to Pope Leo XIV to make an apostolic visit to Ukraine.
Photo credit: Vatican Media
