Cardinal Parolin’s Visit to the Marian Shrine of Berdychiv in Ukraine
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Holy See’s Secretary of State, recently presided over a Mass at the Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Berdychiv, Ukraine, serving as a beacon of hope and peace for the Ukrainian people. The pilgrimage site, cherished by the country’s Catholic community, was adorned in white and blue, creating a serene atmosphere for the faithful who gathered to pray for peace.
During the Mass, Cardinal Parolin emphasized the importance of maintaining faith even in the face of adversity, encouraging the congregation not to despair when evil appears to prevail. He shared Pope Francis’ message of solidarity and offered reassurance that the Vatican stands with Ukraine during these challenging times.
Remembrance of Miracles
Bishop Edward Kawa, in his homily delivered mostly in Ukrainian, recounted the miraculous history of the Shrine of Berdychiv. The story of Janusz Tyszkiewicz, the governor who built a monastery in gratitude for his liberation, serves as a testament to the power of faith and divine intervention. The shrine’s icon of Our Lady of the Snows, known for its miraculous healing powers, symbolizes the unwavering presence of God’s grace in times of distress.
A Call to Prayer and Prophecy
Cardinal Parolin called upon the Ukrainian Church to embody prophetic faith through persistent prayer and unwavering trust in God’s mercy. He urged believers to intercede for the conversion of hearts hardened by violence and pride, emphasizing the transformative power of divine love.
Hope in the Face of Darkness
Amidst the shadows of war and suffering, Cardinal Parolin reminded the congregation to cling to the promise of Easter, where despair is vanquished by the light of Christ’s resurrection. He encouraged the faithful to draw strength from the crucified Savior, who triumphed over sin and death, offering a glimmer of hope in times of darkness.
Prayers to Our Lady of Berdychiv
In his concluding remarks, Cardinal Parolin invoked the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the gentle guide who leads us towards the embrace of divine love. As the faithful seek solace in Mary’s tender care, they find strength to endure trials and hope for a future filled with peace and harmony.
“O Blessed Mother, grant that children and young people may have a peaceful and sure future, that families may be places of love, that the elderly and the sick may receive comfort and relief in their suffering, that those defending their homeland may be protected from the attacks of evil, that prisoners of war may return to embrace their loved ones, and that the victims may be welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven.”
As Cardinal Parolin’s visit to the Shrine of Berdychiv comes to a close, the echoes of his message of hope and resilience continue to resonate, offering a ray of light in a world overshadowed by conflict and uncertainty.
