In alignment with Pope Francis’ Easter message, Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church has echoed the pontiff’s call for a broad prisoner exchange to exemplify the salvation Christ offers. This request emphasizes the release of female detainees, healthcare staff, and religious leaders.
Shevchuk delivered his message on April 28, expressing the church’s commitment to the liberation of these individuals and responded to the urgent need for an “all-for-all” exchange to bring Easter hope to those in captivity.
Pope Francis appealed for prisoner exchange in his “urbi et orbi” blessing, invoking the idea of universal doors of life, contrasted with the aggression inflicting the world. He urged an exchange of prisoners between Russia and Ukraine to uphold international law principles.
Shevchuk reiterated Pope Francis’ plea, in light of the approaching Julian calendar Easter (May 5, 2024), which the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church currently observes. A future transition to the Gregorian calendar is planned for after 2025.
Highlighting the plight of Ukrainian POWs and civilians held by Russia, Shevchuk proposed concrete action toward the shared goal of honoring Christ’s sacrifice by helping war-afflicted individuals, particularly prisoners experiencing brutal conditions.
Addressing the Russian Orthodox faithful, the archbishop recognized the shared reverence for Christ’s resurrection and called for a Christian spirit transcending boundaries to aid the imprisoned on both sides of the conflict.
Shevchuk sought the support of women’s organizations globally to ensure the safe return of female prisoners and implored international medical and religious communities to advocate for the release of detained medics and clerics.
The archbishop highlighted the known cases of Ukrainian Greek Catholic priests enduring captivity and possibly torture in Russian detention since November 2022. He emphasized the moral imperative for the global religious community to act in their defense.
He referenced human rights reports and U.N. investigations that underscored the horrific treatment of Ukrainian POWs by Russian forces, which starkly contrasts the humane conditions provided to Russian POWs in Ukraine.
Reporting for OSV News, multimedia journalist Gina Christian offers insights into these critical developments. Connect with her on X (@GinaJesseReina).
FAQ Section
- Who is calling for an “all-for-all” prisoner exchange?
- Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church and Pope Francis have called for an “all-for-all” prisoner exchange.
- When did Major Archbishop Shevchuk issue his plea?
- Major Archbishop Shevchuk issued his plea on April 28.
- What significant dates are mentioned in relation to the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church’s calendar?
- The upcoming Julian calendar Easter is on May 5, 2024, and after 2025, the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church will switch to the Gregorian calendar.
- What groups of people has Major Archbishop Shevchuk specifically mentioned in his plea?
- He has mentioned women, medical workers, and clergy.
- What has been reported about the treatment of Ukrainian POWs and civilians in Russian detention?
- It has been reported that Ukrainian POWs and civilians face torture, beatings, inadequate food, lack of medical attention, and sexual violence in Russian detention.
- How are Russian POWs being treated in Ukrainian camps?
- Russian POWs in Ukrainian camps are reportedly treated in accordance with international law, receiving regular meals, hygienic care, and contact with their families, among other provisions.
Conclusion Section
The calls from both Major Archbishop Shevchuk and Pope Francis for an extensive prisoner swap represent a profound plea for humanity amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Highlighting the particular plight of women, healthcare workers, and members of the clergy detained in horrific conditions, the leaders urge global organizations and communities to collaborate towards achieving the safe return of these individuals. As Easter approaches, the message of hope and deliverance stands in stark contrast with the reported atrocities, emphasizing the necessity of action and solidarity from the international community to reflect the values of justice, peace, and the dignity of human life.