Special Diocesan Collection for Ukrainian Refugees in Poland

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, over a million refugees, mostly women and children, and the elderly, have fled to Poland along its 330-mile border. This sudden and unanticipated surge of refugees in such a short period of time has created a humanitarian crisis of epic proportions.  

Through Father Martin Gladysz, a native priest of Poland and associate pastor of the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, Bishop Stika has learned of the heroic efforts of Father Tomasz Szopa, rector of the St. John Paul II Shrine in Kraków, Poland, and the people associated with the Shrine, who are helping thousands of refugees.  

As the Shrine is a very large and popular place of pilgrimage, it has the unique ability to shelter many refugees and can assist with meals, clothing, and basic needs. Learn more about the help the Shrine is providing refugees in this article.

Of note, Father Tomasz attended the dedication of the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus four years ago, and his connection with our diocese has only deepened since.  

Any assistance given to the St. John Paul II Shrine in Krakow will go to aiding countless Ukrainian refugees. For this reason, Bishop Stika has asked that a special collection be taken at parishes in the diocese on the weekend of March 19-20.

You can give online here.

Bishop Stika offered this prayer for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people on Feb. 24.