Archbishop Gudziak Speaks on War in Ukraine During CNEWA Presentation

May 04, 2026

On May 4, Metropolitan Archbishop Borys Gudziak participated in “United in Hope for Ukraine,” a Zoom presentation organized by Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA) and cohosted with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Knights of Columbus. The event focused on the ongoing war in Ukraine, its humanitarian consequences, and possible paths forward amid Russia’s continued aggression.

During his presentation, Archbishop Gudziak reflected on the devastating impact of the war on Ukrainian society, sharing personal experiences from his visits to Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. He spoke about the destruction of homes, schools, hospitals, and churches, as well as the daily suffering endured by millions of Ukrainians living under constant attacks.

Archbishop Gudziak emphasized that despite exhaustion and loss, Ukrainians continue to resist and support one another in extraordinary ways. He noted that millions of internally displaced persons have been received into homes and communities throughout the country, while churches and volunteers continue to provide humanitarian assistance and spiritual support.

Speaking about the moral reality of the war, Archbishop Gudziak stated that “War is the culmination of all sin. It begins with a lie. It starts with violence. It leads to war crimes and even genocide. There is no one who wants this war to end more than Ukrainians do. But they understand that, over the past three hundred years, every time there has been a Russian occupation of any part of Ukrainian territory, the Ukrainian Catholic Church has been outlawed.”

The Archbishop also spoke about the sacrifices made by Ukrainian soldiers, chaplains, students, and families throughout the war. He shared stories of young Ukrainians who lost their lives defending their country and reflected on the ministry of the Church in accompanying grieving families, widows, orphans, refugees, and those displaced by the war.

Addressing those participating in the event, Archbishop Gudziak expressed gratitude for the continued support offered to Ukraine by churches, charitable organizations, and individuals around the world.

“You pray, you inform, and you help,” he said, assuring participants that their solidarity continues to make a real difference for the people of Ukraine.