“90 percent of the territory of my diocese is flooded due to heavy rain. Many churches, parish houses and schools have been damaged by the rain flood. The people are left homeless and hungry besides the families grieving for the loss of their loved ones.”

Without a van, securing the needs of the refugees is simply impossible, but unfortunately Father Ivan Koltun, the shrine’s custodian, did not have a car until now.

“By gathering in such large numbers, we will be able to say: ‘We are here, we exist, we have a role to play in this country’—and that is so important when you think about how much we have suffered over the past few years."

"We often view human beings only as corporeal, cultural, social, or economic entities, but not as spiritual beings. There is a lack of awareness that men and women are created by God and for God. A holistic conception of humanity is missing."

“People wake up in the morning and don’t know if they will become the latest victims of an attack, and nobody feels safe anymore.”

"I met a soldier who from his position at the front line can see his home through binoculars. His wife and two children remained, under occupation. Every day he can see his wife and children from a distance, but he has no contact with them."