Apostolic Nuncio to Ukraine: Every war sin before God and humanity

He said this in a comment to Ukrinform on the occasion of the National Day of Prayer.

According to Kulbokas, the position of Christian churches and the Holy See is unequivocal: “The killing of a single person is already the killing of humanity.” He emphasized that “every war is a sin before both God and people,” leaving no room for doubt.

At the same time, the Nuncio noted that the more difficult question is how exactly to stop a war and protect the victim of aggression. In his view, prayer alone is not enough – active efforts are also required at all levels, including informational, humanitarian, diplomatic, and political.

“Prayer alone is not sufficient, because work must be done on all levels,” Archbishop Kulbokas stressed.

Nevertheless, he added that prayer has the power to change human hearts, noting that “the Lord changes people’s thoughts, and there is even prayer for one’s enemies. God can change paths, help people repent, and bring Russia to repentance.”

The representative of the Holy See acknowledged that after four years of full-scale war and a fifth difficult winter, the world and the international community have not done enough to stop the conflict. In his opinion, this highlights the need for greater unity and determination.

On the Day of Prayer for Justice and Peace in Ukraine, he expressed a desire to see “even greater unity among Ukrainians – and not only Ukrainians, but all partners,” both in joint action and in prayer. The Nuncio called for representatives of different churches and religions to pray together with state leaders.

“Which path do we choose when even international law does not work? Then we turn to God,” Archbishop Kulbokas said.

He also addressed Russian citizens who may hear his words, urging people of goodwill not to stop praying and to seek ways to influence the situation within their own country, even under dictatorial rule.

As reported by Ukrinform, on the occasion of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a united prayer for Ukraine was held at Saint Sophia Cathedral. In addition, a prayer for Ukraine’s victory was offered in the Verkhovna Rada on the National Day of Prayer.

Four years ago, on February 24, 2022, Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. At around 3:40, the first column of Russian tanks entered the Luhansk region, and residents of many Ukrainian cities awoke to the first missile strikes.

Photo: ugcc.ua