(ZENIT News / Kharkiv, 22.08.2024).- The Pope’s charity has arrived once again at the epicenter of the conflict in Ukraine, extending his solidary hand to the devastated region of Kharkiv, one of the most stricken areas by Russian bombings. On August 12, after an arduous four-day trip from Rome, trucks loaded with essential supplies, such as food, medicine, clothes and hygiene products, reached their destination, giving respite to the population.
This humanitarian effort, organized meticulously by the Dicastery for Charity, under the direction of Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, is a continuation of the incessant endeavour of aid that the Vatican has been carrying out since the beginning of the war. On this occasion, young members of the Pontifical Swiss Guard, the Pope’s army, played a crucial role, dedicating hours to load the trucks manually in the Roman parish of Saint Sophia. With boxes filling up to the last corner of the vehicles, the convoy left for a region that has been synonym of suffering and resistance.
The aid, which was not only received by the local community but also shared with the Greek-Catholic Church of the region, was welcomed with profound gratitude. In an emotive message captured on video, Greek-Catholic Bishop Vasyl Tuchapets, of the Kharkiv Eparchy, expressed his gratitude to Pope Francis and the Holy See for their constant support. From Saint Nicholas Cathedral, turned into a center of aid distribution, Bishop Tuchapets highlighted the importance of these supplies for the inhabitants of Kharkiv, many of whom have had to flee their homes with only what they were wearing.
The Bishop stressed the urgency of this aid, especially at a time in which many people are being evacuated from areas of combat close to the Russian border, such as Vovchansk and Lyptsi. On arriving at Kharkiv, these people find themselves in a desperate situation, needing food, bedding and basic utensils. The arrival of aid from Rome, organized by the Saint Sophia Association and other volunteers, has been a lifesaver for many.
Cardinal Krajewski, in contact with Vatican Radio, expressed his satisfaction on learning that the aid has arrived at its destination. “It’s a real joy to know that the Holy Father’s gifts and those of many Romans have arrived in Ukraine,” he said, pointing out the generosity of all those that contributed to this mission. The Cardinal also thanked the Swiss Guards and the citizens of Rome for their commitment and generosity and, of course, Pope Francis, who continues showing tangible closeness with “tormented” Ukraine, ever present in his prayers and pubic appeals.
This gesture of solidarity not only gives relief to the needy, but also reinforces the message of hope and compassion that Poe Francis has kept alive in the midst of the tragedy of war, urging the world not to forget those that suffer.
