Tent for pastoral events in Kyiv and Zhytomyr
As a result of the war, most people in Ukraine are suffering fear, trauma, and psychological stress, while many are torn by feelings of hatred and rage. So many families have been torn apart and may never be reunited. The healing of souls is just as important as the easing of immediate material needs and the eventual rebuilding of the cities and physical infrastructure after the war. And so, in addition to the practical aid for refugees and others in need, the Church is striving very hard to ensure that people are not abandoned in their spiritual and psychological needs.
Bishop Vitaliy Kryvytskyi is seeing a growing demand for this kind of spiritual support, especially among young people. For example, whereas there were previously around 200 young people taking part in the diocesan youth days, today the number is around 400. And the diocese simply does not have enough space for such large gatherings.
But a solution has been found. In Zarichany, a small town close to Zhytomyr they plan to set up a large, permanent tent with enough space to accommodate large groups. This would allow for youth meetings, retreat days, initiatives for families and internally displaced people, as well as retreats and spiritual exercises for priests and religious, and many more gatherings. The tent could also be rented out for other events, and consequently provide an extra source of income for the diocese.
Bishop Vitaliy has written to ask for our help: “This is an essential part of our pastoral ministry, if the Church is to be alive and close to the people and effectively fulfil her mission. We can assure all your staff and supporters who are supporting our work in Ukraine of our constant and grateful remembrance in prayer.”
We have promised him the $59,250 needed to purchase and set up the tent, as we are convinced that it will make a vital contribution to helping both young people and adults in need of spiritual and psychological support, so that they can find a way forward into the future.
