The solemn celebration in honour of St. Michael the Archangel, heavenly patron of the Province of St. Michael the Archangel in Ukraine and patron saint of all Ukraine, both for Catholics and Orthodox, brought together friars from different convents, even distant from Zhytomyr, the city that hosted the event.
This year the anniversary acquired a special significance thanks to the presence of Br. Konrad Cholewa, General Definitor, who was present together with Br. Nicola Kozina (former Director of the Development Office of the OFM General Curia) to bring a tangible sign of fraternal solidarity to all Ukrainians in this time of war.
During the solemn celebration in the church of St. John of Dukla in Zhytomyr, Br. Konrad delivered a profound homily and catechesis, offering his support to the Ukrainian people in their difficult struggle and emphasizing an unshakable faith: "God always wins, and the last word belongs to Him."
His message was a source of inspiration and encouragement for all present. A special thanks was raised to God for all the friars of the Province who serve the faithful with dedication in this difficult moment and for the blessing of new vocations.
Br. Konrad and Br. Nikola made an intense journey visiting various friaries in the Province: Shargorod, Sudova Vyshnia, Baranivka, Polonne. Their mission of solidarity has also led them to Lviv and the capital, the city of Kyiv, which has recently suffered more than other cities due to the bombings and chaos of the war, spiritually uniting themselves with the suffering of the country.
With sword in hand, St. Michael the Archangel is the Prince of the heavenly armies and the powerful defender against the forces of evil. In this terrible time of war, the Province trusts with hope in the intercession of St. Michael the Archangel, imploring through prayers peace and protection for the Ukrainian people.
