“We Are Proud of Our Clergy Because They Are Ready to Give Their Lives for Their People,” Head of the UGCC in Romania
On September 16–19, 2024, the traditional annual meeting of the Eastern Catholic bishops of Europe is taking place in Oradea, Romania. This year’s theme is: “Relations between Bishops and Priests — Brotherhood and Humanity”. After the report of Cardinal Gugerotti, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches, His Beatitude Sviatoslav, Father and Head of the UGCC, took the floor. In his speech, he testified on behalf of the UGCC clergy.
“We are currently living through very difficult times in Ukraine, but we are proud of our clergy because they are ready to give their lives for their people. At the same time, they cannot receive anything from this people. The clergy, especially in central and southeastern Ukraine, live below the poverty line,” said His Beatitude Sviatoslav.
He pointed out that there are parishes in Ukraine where people have changed by almost 100 %. “Everyone left, but others came because of the priest’s testimony and the social and pastoral service he offers,” said the Head of the UGCC.
He emphasized that the bishop must support the priest and his family. “Therefore, for us (bishops — Ed.), this relationship with the priest is truly paternal,” explained His Beatitude Sviatoslav, responding to the theme of the meeting in Oradea “Relationships between Bishops and Priests — Brotherhood and Humanity.”
The Head of the UGCC explained that there are specific forms and mechanisms for supporting priests and their families. First of all, this includes retreats, as well as diocesan institutions or activities for the ongoing formation of the clergy.
“As a rule, we gather priests alone, without their families, but at least twice a year they come with their families and children. This is an invaluable time for the bishops to be together, to pray together and listen to each other,” said His Beatitude Sviatoslav in his speech.
The UGCC Department for Information
Photo https://www.egco.ro/
