With Christmas around the corner and temperatures plummeting in the war-torn country of Ukraine, Pope Francis has sent an envoy for the fifth time back to Ukraine, this time with electric generators and thermal clothing. iMedia reports that Polish Cardinal Konrad Krajewski traveled on Dec. 17, 2022.
Prior to the announcement of the cardinal's trip, an appeal was made by the Apostolic Chaplaincy for thermal T-shirts to help the people of Ukraine who are struggling with the bitter temperature. An online donation option (which is still active) was made available and, as of the past week, had reached over 75,000 euros (almost $80,000 in US dollars). iMedia reports,
Cardinal Krajewski "intends to bring to the Ukrainian people the fruit of the solidarity collected in recent weeks," said the statement issued on the day of the 86th birthday of Pope Francis. The clothing and electrical generators will be transported to Lviv and then distributed in areas where "suffering and cold are greatest," the statement said.
The Apostolic Chaplaincy has increased its humanitarian aid to Ukraine since the conflict began. During his last visit in September, Cardinal Krajewski, who is 59, visited the regions of Odessa, Žytomyr, Kharkiv, and other places in eastern Ukraine, assuring Ukrainians "that they are not alone in this situation that brings only destruction and death."
Apparently, the prelate was shot at during his tour near the front. He also paid respects to the remains of 500 people buried in mass graces in Itzioum.
As the Ukrainian population experiences a shortage of electricity, gas, and food while winter sets in, the donations the Cardinal is bringing will hopefully bring a small level of comfort and aid as the people there welcome Christmas amidst the harshest of circumstances.
You can still support the initiative here.
