Statement of solidarity from the Provincials of Europe

The Provincials of Europe have been meeting this week by Zoom. Our sessions have taken place against the context of the war in Ukraine and the escalating humanitarian crisis on our continent.

We have been moved by the sharing of Dorota and Laura, from Poland and CEU, whose provinces cover countries of Eastern Europe which share a frontier with Ukraine. Poland and Hungary are experiencing a huge influx of people crossing their borders in search of safety and refuge.

As we have prayed and reflected together, the words “to be and act as One Body” have taken on a deeper meaning and a greater significance. When one part of the body is wounded, the whole body feels the pain.

Our hearts go out to the courageous men, women and children of Ukraine who are facing unprovoked violence and hardship. We are united too with the many Russians around the world who want peace and condemn this war.

Embracing these and all countries marked by war, violence and conflict, we invite all RSCJ in Europe and around the Society, as well as members of the wider family of the Sacred Heart, to commit themselves anew to building peace in our communities and wherever we find ourselves.

We make our own, the call of Pope Francis to make Ash Wednesday, (or another day in Lent) a day of fasting and prayer for peace. We also invite you to join the Society’s global prayer for peace which will take place on Friday March 4^th, at 12.00pm (Rome time). There will be 20 minutes of silent prayer of solidarity. Links for this will be sent out from the Mother House.

Let us entrust Ukraine, the peace of Europe and indeed of the whole world to the loving mercy of our God.