What the experience of Ukraine’s Church can teach American Catholics today
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine brought a number of issues to the fore, including the religious composition of both countries. One strong voice that has emerged in leading his flock in the midst of war is Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk, head and father of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. That Church’s dramatic history and rich liturgical and spiritual traditions not only provide a sense of grounding and hope for its members who are undergoing hardships in Ukraine, but also offer lessons for American Catholics and other believers, who often face cultural and liturgical “wars” in their own country. Catholic journalist John Burger, author of “At the Foot of the Cross: Lessons from Ukraine,” provides some context and possibly some food for thought.
“At the Foot of the Cross: Lessons from Ukraine” is on sale now from the McGivney Center Gift Shop. Author John Burger will be available to sign books April 22 beginning at 1 pm. His presentation will be at 2 pm and he will resume signing afterward until 4 pm.