On February 22nd, the Vincentian Family published a Statement on the current situation which is sadly unfolding in Eastern Europe. Therein, the Vincentian Family calls on all parties to reach for global peace and stands firm in their commitment to fully support the people in Ukraine.
This statement was signed by all global Vincentian Family leaders, including our 16th President General International, brother Renato Lima de Oliveira, on behalf of the whole Society of St. Vincent de Paul.
The Council General International condemns any kind of war, claiming that the best way to settle conflict is a peaceful approach, thus avoiding the loss of lives and the economic consequences. “Peace I leave with you” (John 14, 27), as our Lord Jesus Christ asked us to do .
From the outset of this conflict, the Council General has liaised with our brothers and sisters in Ukraine to be informed about their situation and their safety. Fortunately, they are all fine. Currently, there are three Vincentian Conferences in the country:
- St. John Mary Vianey Conference (adults), and St. Christopher Conference (youth), both in Kharkiv;
- St. Martha Vetskaya Conference (youth), in Kiev.
“Our deepest sympathy for the Ukrainian people. We pray to God that this crisis will end soon, and that world leaders on both sides will be mindful of the situation and settle disputes through dialogue. We are all brothers and sisters in Christ”, stated our President General.
Click here to read the full statement published by the Vincentian Family.
Click here to read the appeal of Pope Francis.
