Salesians in Ukraine

Salesians in Ukraine

There are about 40 SDBs serving in Ukraine, and most or all of them have remained with their people during the outbreak of war.

"Dreams shattered"

photo by Fr. Roman Sikon, SDB

There is a vice province of about 26 SDBs of the Greek Eastern Catholic Rite, with works in Lviv, Kiev, and other cities.  Another 14 Salesians, mostly Polish, belong to the Latin Rite and are attached to the Krakow Province. They are in Lviv, Odessa, and other cities.

Fr. Chaban Mykhaylo, SDB, provincial of the vice province of the Greek Catholic Rite, wrote on Feb. 24 that they were looking for money for:

  - refurbishment of the children's shelter (we should protect at least our kids and children, two state schools, even though all the people will be in need). We have it as a place, but without sanitary services, water, etc.

  - We must also think about procuring various things for the refugees for living (mattresses, beds, blankets, etc.). Also of course we should help in giving food. We now have 75 children in our care; we could host up to 300 people when they come as refugees. For now, let’s make arrangements for the children at the orphanages. The municipality is already calling us with the request to take them in the next few days.

Fr. Marcin Kaznowski, SDB, provincial of the Krakow Province, wrote on Feb. 25:  "The confreres are aware of the dangers that may exist, but they are serene and confident in God’s providence. All have informed me that they are ready to remain there to accompany their faithful and the young people entrusted to them in this difficult moment.  As a province, we keep in regular contact with them and offer prayer, logistical and material support."

The Salesian Sisters (FMAs) also have a vital presence in Ukraine, specifically in Lviv, Kiev, and Odessa.  From the community of Lviv, for example, the FMAs communicate that they are well and that their house is open to welcome the many people fleeing to save themselves from attacks, especially mothers with small children. And when they are in the shelter, they pray the Rosary with the people: “This is our weapon! We thank in prayer those who are giving their lives to defend us, and we thank God who has given us another day of life.”  The story is similar in the other presences.

The FMAs of Poland and Slovakia are welcoming refugees into their houses and going to the borders to assist them with translation and material help.