The Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Theological Seminary in Vorzel, Kyiv region, was looted by the Russian military, who stole everything that could be sold, including a chalice commemorating the Mass that Pope John Paul II delivered in June 2001 celebrated his visit to Ukraine, along with the monstrance. This was announced by the Bishop of the Latin Rite Diocese of KyivZhytomyr Vitaliy Kryvytskyi on Facebook. “The robbers opened the gates with heavy equipment so that they could enter the seminary and not leave emptyhanded. They brought out almost everything that can be sold: air conditioners, washing machines, computers, routers, kitchen appliances, down to his father’s Rector’s old sneakers, in which he liked to run. Some liturgical objects were also stolen,” wrote the bishop. Back at the seminary after two days’ absence, Msgr. Kryvytskyi stated: “His appearance is sad, but it is gratifying that everyone survived. An evacuation was necessary. The seminary was always hospitable, but this time it was not quiet.The barbarians damaged several cars, but yes.
Some rooms have been damaged by the blasts, but we thank Almighty God for saving our alma mater from greater destruction. “It will take time for the life of the seminary to return, the prelate continued. There is no water, electricity, gas. The rector, the spiritual father and the deacons have already returned to the cold houses. A group of friendly men arrived and agreed to share these spartan conditions and help revitalize the seminary as soon as possible. Many thanks to everyone for their courage and sacrifice! People from the area who need help are already arriving at the seminary, said Mgr. Kryvytskyi, thanking “for the numerous humanitarian transports that our Diocesan Caritas has already sent.
Meanwhile, today, Palm Sunday, “all the proceeds from our parishes traditionally go to the diocesan seminary. Thank you in advance for any donation! We need the funds to renovate the premises and bring the seminary back to life Church property. Finally, Ukraine, which is being rebuilt after the war, will also need spiritual leaders: priests. Let us pray that the Lord will call those He has chosen for His special ministry. And it is unique today, the words that Pope Wojtyla on 24 you offered to Christians from all over the world! Many of your sons and daughters have walked in full fidelity to Christ; many of them have carried their endurance to the supreme sacrifice. May their testimony be an example and encouragement to the Christians of the third millennium.