Ukrainian Greek Catholic Cardinal Mykola Bychok has called on the faithful to hold fast to the hope of Christ’s resurrection amid the ongoing devastation of war in Ukraine.
In his 2026 Easter pastoral letter, released ahead of the feast, Cardinal Bychok reflected on the enduring meaning of the resurrection as a source of strength for those facing violence, loss and displacement.
He acknowledged the deep wounds inflicted by the war, including the grief of families, destruction of cities, and the uncertainty confronting millions of Ukrainians.
He encouraged the Ukrainian in Australia to remain united with their homeland through prayer and work for peace.
“The resurrection is not only a historical event; it is a mission,” the cardinal said in his message delivered at the Cathedral of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul in Melbourne on 25 March.
“Christ sends us forth as ambassadors of his peace – to comfort the suffering, to defend the vulnerable, to speak truth with courage, to build bridges where others build walls, and to pray unceasingly for Ukraine and for all who endure violence.
“The world needs Christians who radiate the peace of the Risen Lord, not a passive peace but a Paschal peace – the peace that flows from the empty tomb.
“The innocent suffer while the powerful pursue violence. In such a time, the promise of Christ’s peace is not abstract. It is necessary, it is urgent, and it is the only peace that can heal the wounds of nations and the wounds of the human heart.”
His message followed a strong public expression of faith and solidarity earlier this month at the 16th annual national Ukrainian cultural festival ‘Uki Fest’ held in Sydney, which drew clergy, families and community groups from across the country.
The festival programme featured performances by artistic groups, music and dance, and presentations of Ukrainian culture, traditions, and cuisine.
“Even far from our homeland, we continue to sing our songs, dance our dances, speak our language, and pass on our traditions with love,” the cardinal told the crowds.
“Yet as we celebrate, we cannot forget the deep tragedy that continues to unfold in Ukraine. For more than four years now, our people have endured the suffering of war –families separated, homes destroyed, lives lost, and millions displaced.
“Every Ukrainian, no matter where they live, carries this pain in their heart. It is a wound that touches us all. But what moves me so deeply, and what I see so clearly here today, is that even in the shadow of this suffering, Ukrainians do not lose their spirit.”
The full text of the pastoral letter can be read here.
