Ohio-based bishop to go to Ukraine to pray for end of war

PARMA, Ohio — The northeast Ohio suburb of Parma is dwelling to the state’s largest Ukrainian inhabitants.

For the reason that Russian invasion of Ukraine, many individuals on this neighborhood have been apprehensive for his or her households again in Ukraine, together with those that attend St. Josaphat Eparchy – Ukrainian Catholic Church in Parma. 

Bohdan Danylo defined they’ve spent quite a lot of time praying for the individuals in Ukraine and sending donations. 

“At the moment, in all probability anybody who has household in Ukraine, they know somebody who’s both preventing or who has misplaced their life,” Danylo defined. “As we communicate, day by day, over 100 to 200 Ukrainian troopers are dying on this warfare.” 

Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, and the bishop was within the nation simply two weeks earlier than all of it occurred. 

He mentioned throughout that point, individuals in Ukraine knew they needed to defend their dwelling. 

“Ukraine is the one land we have now, so we might be preventing to protect it,” he defined. “Ukrainians are, firstly, nonetheless preventing and even the mighty military of Russia shouldn’t be in a position to overtake these areas.” 

Now, the bishop is on the point of head again to Ukraine with a bunch of bishops in July. 

“We’re assembly proper throughout the border in Poland and I will be with the bishops and the plan is we’ll enter Ukraine as a bunch for pilgrimage for [the] shrine to mom of God in western Ukraine,” he defined. “As soon as once more, pray as a bunch of bishops for peace in Ukraine.” 

The group plans to reach on July 16 and spend two days praying for the warfare to return to an finish. 

“We hope that being over there and being with those that are struggling might be an indication of unity with them,” he mentioned. “Giving them a energy and spirit to face up to the invasion.” 

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