Vatican’s Secretary of State begins state visit to Ukraine tomorrow - Metropolitan of Lviv

14.06.2016 18:55

Ukrinform

The Vatican’s Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin will begin his state visit to Ukraine on June 15. First, the visit is important because of its international resonance. This is a promotion of Ukraine throughout the world and it’s an equivalent to the arrival of the Pope, The Roman Catholic Church Metropolitan of Lviv Archbishop Mechyslav Mokshytsky told a briefing, Ukrinform reports.

"The visit of the Vatican’s Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin will officially launch the action "The Pope to Ukraine". The visit is regarded as a state one, and not a church one since the Secretary of State post is equivalent to the position of prime minister. It is hard to overestimate the effect that this event will cause in the world. Because it is an equivalent to the Pontiff's visit, " said Mokshytsky.

According to the metropolitan, the State Secretary will discuss social problems, the issue of freedom of the church at the meetings with the President, the Head of Ukrainian Government. At the same time, the Vatican delegate will bring the word of God and the blessings of the Holy See to Ukraine.

The Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Parolin’s official visit to Ukraine lasts from June 15 to June 20.