The Mark of Discipleship

Celebrating Mass in Kyiv, Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William Lori commends the faith and resilience of Ukrainians

Nov. 6, 2024

Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William E. Lori visits Ukraine Oct. 18-21, 2024. — Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William Lori delivers the homily during Mass at St. Alexander’s Cathedral in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Oct. 19. (Photo by Andrii Gorb)

Editor’s Note: Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William Lori delivered the following homily during a Mass he concelebrated in St. Alexander’s Cathedral in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Oct. 19. Kyiv was Archbishop Lori’s first stop during his visit to Ukraine Oct. 19-21 to meet with victims of the ongoing war and assure Ukrainians of the Order’s continued support.

My dear brothers and sisters, we gather today in this holy place, not only to celebrate the Eucharist but also to unite our hearts and prayers with those who continue to suffer in this beloved country. We come together as one body in Christ, standing in solidarity with the people of Ukraine, who are enduring the hardships of war.

In St. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, we hear a prayer filled with gratitude and hope. Paul writes, “Hearing of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the holy ones, I do not cease giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers” (1:15-16). These words echo my own sentiments today.

I have heard and witnessed for myself the incredible faith and resilience of the Ukrainian people — your unwavering belief in God even in the darkest of times. Your faith is not only a light for yourselves but also for the world. Like St. Paul, I give thanks for your strength, for your love for one another, and for your perseverance in the face of great suffering. In today’s Gospel, Jesus gives us a powerful message of courage: “I tell you, everyone, who acknowledges me before others the Son of Man will acknowledge before the angels of God” (Lk 12:8). In this time of crisis, we are called to bear witness to Christ not only in words but in our actions — by standing for justice, peace and truth. The courage to proclaim the Gospel in challenging times is a mark of our discipleship.

Jesus also speaks of the Holy Spirit, who will guide us when we do not know what to say or how to act. In moments of fear or uncertainty, when the weight of the suffering feels overwhelming, we can trust that the Holy Spirit is with us. The Spirit speaks through our prayers, through our solidarity with one another, and through the tireless work of those who serve the people in this war-torn land.

We must remember that the unity Christ calls us to is not simply a theoretical concept but a living reality. In times of suffering, unity becomes our greatest strength. Here, in Ukraine, we see this unity most vividly in the work of organizations like the Knights of Columbus, who are providing incredible support to those affected by the war. Their work is a testament to the Gospel values of charity, unity and fraternity. The Knights of Columbus have long held unity as one of their most cherished guiding principles, and this value is desperately needed today. In this time of crisis, they are showing what it means to stand in solidarity — not only through material aid but by bringing hope, by being present, and by showing the world that love and compassion know no boundaries.

The resilience of the Ukrainian people is nothing short of extraordinary. Your courage, faith and perseverance in the face of war remind us that God’s grace is with you. Just as Christ walked with the suffering, he walks with you now. He is present in the courage of those defending their homeland, in the prayers of those who seek peace, and in the hands of those offering aid and comfort. You are not alone. The Church, the Knights of Columbus and the entire body of Christ stand with you. Together, we form a communion that transcends borders, a unity of believers who trust that God’s justice and mercy will prevail.

As we continue with this Mass, let us offer our prayers for peace, for the safety and resilience of the Ukrainian people, and for the strength to remain united in the face of suffering. Let us give thanks for the powerful witness of those like the Knights of Columbus, who embody the love of Christ through their work. And let us trust that Christ, who has been raised from the dead and reigns in glory, will bring peace and healing to this land. May God bless you and may his peace reign in Ukraine.