PATRIARCH OF THE UKRAINIAN GREEK CATHOLIC CHURCH SUPPORTS UWC EFFORTS REGARDING CARMELITE CHURCH IN PRZEMYSL

     In a letter dated May 23, 2007, Patriarch Lubomyr of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church voiced his support of the request for intervention by the Ukrainian World Congress to the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI regarding anti-Ukrainian plaques located in the Church of St. Teresa and the Shoeless Carmelites in Przemysl. Following is the full text of the Patriarch’s letter to UWC President Askold S. Lozynskyj:

     “I received a copy of your letter to the Holy Father regarding the bronze plaques in the Church of St. Teresa in Przemysl, which contain words offensive to Ukrainians. Thank you very much for this initiative.

     For some time now consciously we have been trying to effectuate a peaceful coexistence with our brethren Polish people.

    This is being done by our country as well as, consciously and deliberately, by our Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church.  The bishoprics on both sides, Ukrainian and Polish, accomplished a major act of reconciliation in 2005 based on the concept: “we forgive and we seek forgiveness.” History cannot be reversed but in the spirit of that accord we ought to avoid any offensive words or deeds. Those “unfortunate” plaques in what was once our Cathedral – they are not witnesses of history but rather an attempt to preclude genuine and heartfelt reconciliation. Their removal is necessary. Therefore, thank you once again for your initiative.”

Toronto, June 5, 2007                                                 

Ukrainian World Congress