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European Bishops, Churches decry ‘brutal war’ against Ukraine

Recalling the “brutal war that wages on against Ukraine,” the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union and the Conference of European Churches pray that the Holy Spirit may enlighten those involved in violence as Christians prepare to celebrate Pentecost.

By Deborah Castellano Lubov

May the Holy Spirit enlighten the minds of those who seek violence, and may the Holy Spirit this Pentecost inspire peace efforts and reconciliation on the European continent and beyond.

This is the prayer expressed by the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) and the Conference of European Churches (CEC), in their joint appeal for peace ahead of Pentecost Sunday.

“As we prepare to celebrate Pentecost this year, let us be open to receiving the Holy Spirit,” they urge, saying that God’s “power can heal and reconcile humanity and transform society.”

The leaders of Christians Churches in Europe also call on the faithful to pray for justice and peace and to “commit together in humility and hope to the Spirit of God who transforms and reconciles all.”

Enlightenment for those engaging in violence

May the same Spirit enlighten the minds of those who seek violence, and ‘give them a heart of flesh.’

They appeal that all may be guided toward paths “justice, truth, reconciliation and peace.”

“May the Pentecost message to seek unity in diversity,” add the Christian leaders, “and inspire those bearing political responsibility in Europe, that their decisions be led by wisdom, integrity and compassion in the service of the common good of all.”

They recall that since the outpouring of the Spirit to the Apostles on the day of Pentecost, the Spirit “has animated and guided churches and sustained and motivated Christians, collectively and individually.”

World deeply wounded

Just as the early Christian community struggled to come up with answers to the problems it faced, COMECE and CEC highlight that today “Christians struggle with the challenges of a world deeply wounded by violence, inequality and division.”

“As the brutal war against Ukraine rages on, the humanitarian crisis continues. Social and political consequences, along with economic inequalities, also continue to surface, exposing the polarisation and fragmentation of our societies.”

War in Ukraine

Signs of the Spirit of God living and working in our lives are witnessed, they point out, for example, in the Churches’ support of refugees.

“In this way,” they acknowledge, “they respond to the humanitarian needs in Ukraine, express solidarity with the victims of this tragic war, and actively work for peace on the continent.”

“As we prepare to celebrate Pentecost this year, let us be open to receiving the Holy Spirit,” say the Church leaders, “whose power can heal and reconcile humanity and transform society. Let us pray for justice and peace and commit together in humility and hope to the Spirit of God who transforms and reconciles all.”

The Presidents of COMECE and CEC encourage prayer for the shared witness and work of all Christians on behalf of the European project, and conclude by wishing a Blessed Pentecost to all.

“Let us pray that the Spirit guides and illuminates all of us to be able to discern and join in life-giving action throughout Europe and the world,” they urge.