Cardinal Konrad Krajewski Sent to Ukraine for Sixth Humanitarian Mission

In a demonstration of Pope Francis' ongoing concern for the people affected by the war in Ukraine, Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, the papal almoner, has been called upon once again to provide humanitarian aid. This marks his sixth mission to Ukraine, this time focusing on the Kherson region in the south, which has recently experienced devastating floods due to a dam collapse.

Highlights

By Catholic Online (NEWS CONSORTIUM)
6/23/2023 (1 year ago)

Published in Europe

Keywords: Konrad Krajewski, Vatican, Ukraine, humanitarian, mission

The Vatican Dicastery for the Service of Charity announced on June 22 that Cardinal Konrad Krajewski's mission is to stand in solidarity with the affected people, offering prayers, comfort, and tangible support on behalf of the Pope. The cardinal will undertake the journey in a car filled with essential medicines, making stops along the way to visit Catholic parishes and Orthodox religious communities.

Additionally, a second truck carrying medical supplies, generously donated by South Korea, will be dispatched directly to the areas most severely impacted by the flood caused by the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam on June 6. However, it has been reported that U.N. aid workers faced obstacles in reaching the Russian-occupied territories affected by the dam collapse. The Dnieper River, where the dam was situated, currently serves as a dividing line between Russian and Ukrainian forces.

The dam's collapse occurred shortly after an overnight explosion, which registered at nearly a 2 on the seismic scale. Ukrainian authorities attributed the explosion to Russia. Cardinal Krajewski's previous missions to Ukraine have involved encounters with danger and witnessing the aftermath of the conflict. During one trip, he was even targeted by gunfire as he delivered humanitarian aid near Zaporizhzhia. He has also offered prayers beside mass graves in Ukraine, including a solemn moment on Good Friday in 2022.

Pope Francis' continuous efforts to send Cardinal Konrad Krajewski to Ukraine reflect his unwavering commitment to providing support and aid to the war-torn region. The Pope's concern for the Ukrainian people remains steadfast, and the cardinal's presence and assistance serve as a tangible expression of that care.