News from the Orient: Gaza’s plea for peace, US-Ukrainian Church meeting, and Lenten reflections
Welcome to this week’s edition of News from the Orient, brought to you in collaboration with L’Ouevre d’Orient. Let’s dive into the latest updates from the Eastern Churches.
Gaza parish priest calls for peace
In a war-torn Gaza, the Christian community faces a harrowing reality of constant bombardment. Amidst prayers and fears, Father Romaneli, the parish priest, has made a heartfelt plea for peace. Speaking to Terre Sainte Magazine, he appeals for an end to the ongoing conflict and the beginning of a period of tranquility in the Holy Land.
The recent resumption of hostilities has claimed over 400 lives, shattering a fragile two-month ceasefire. Father Romaneli shares the stories of suffering among the faithful and the heroic efforts of organizations like the World Council of Churches and Caritas Internationalis in aiding the most vulnerable, including disabled children cared for by the Sisters of Mother Teresa.
US and Ukrainian Church leaders unite in Kyiv
While ceasefire negotiations continue in Ukraine, His Beatitude Sviatoslav Shevchuk, Major Archbishop of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, hosted a delegation from the Catholic Church in the United States this week in Kyiv.
Led by Bishop Gerald Winke, the newly appointed head of the US Office for Aid to Eastern Europe, the delegation’s visit was a powerful display of transatlantic solidarity. Shevchuk commended the gesture, emphasizing the importance of global support for Ukraine and the collective pursuit of peace.
Lenten reflections in the Christian world
As the Eastern Churches continue their Lenten journey, unique traditions and observances mark this sacred season. Armenian Churches celebrated Anaraki Sunday, reflecting on the Parable of the Prodigal Son to contemplate God’s boundless mercy.
In the Byzantine tradition, believers observed the Sunday of the Relics, honoring the relics of saints as sources of blessing. Two distinct practices, united in faith and introspection as they prepare for the Easter season.
Stay tuned for more updates and stories from the vibrant Eastern Churches in the weeks to come.
