In a poignant encounter, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, met with Fathers Bohdan Galeta and Ivan Levitsky, two Redemptorist priests recently released from Russian captivity, on July 23, 2024, in Lviv, Ukraine. This meeting underscored the Vatican’s ongoing solidarity and support for those affected by the conflict in Ukraine.
Cardinal Parolin’s visit to Ukraine was as the Holy Father’s special envoy for the closing celebrations of the pilgrimage in Berdychiv. Before his departure, he made a significant stop in Lviv to meet the two priests, who had been in captivity until June 28, 2024. This meeting was a sign of the Vatican’s deep concern and the personal attention Pope Francis brings to the suffering caused by the ongoing conflict. The release of Father Ivan Levitsky and Father Bohdan Galeta, who spent over 19 months in Russian custody, marked a significant moment for the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church and its followers worldwide.
During their fraternal conversation, Cardinal Parolin inquired about the conditions of their captivity and their current state, particularly their health. Fathers Galeta and Levitsky expressed their deep gratitude for the prayers and tireless concern of the Holy Father and the Holy See. This exchange highlighted not only their resilience but also the strength they draw from the prayers and support of the global Catholic community.
The Cardinal conveyed Pope Francis’s deep concern and continuous prayers for peace in Ukraine. He emphasized the Pope’s hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, reflecting the Vatican’s ongoing efforts to mediate and support all those affected by the war.
After this significant encounter, Cardinal Parolin continued his journey, spent the night at the Apostolic Nunciature in Warsaw, and then returned to the Vatican. His visit, which lasted from July 19 to 24, included stops at various key locations, including the Roman Catholic Metropolitan Curia in Lviv, Odessa, and the Greek Catholic Cathedral in Kyiv. He also met with government officials, religious leaders, and visited the “Okhmatdit” pediatric hospital.
This encounter powerfully reminds us of the Redemptorist mission to preach the Gospel to the most abandoned, especially the poor. It is a testament to their resilience and deep faith, even in the face of severe trials. The global Redemptorist community continues to draw inspiration from the courage of Fathers Galeta and Levitsky and renews its commitment to their mission in these challenging times.
“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer” (Romans 12:12).
These words, greatly valued by Saint Alphonsus Liguori, guide us in our pursuit of peace and justice and strengthen our faith in times of distress.
Fathers Bohdan Galeta and Ivan Levitsky, two Redemptorist priests
recently released from Russian captivity, on July 23, 2024.