Leader of Ukraine’s 5 million Catholics asks Canadian Catholics for help to complete the construction of a major seminary
Media release from the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA Canada)
Ottawa, March 6, 2025 – During his recent visit to Canada, February 21-28, His Beatitude Sviatoslav Shevchuk, Patriarch of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, called on Canadians to help complete the Theological Seminary of the Three Holy Hierarchs in Kyiv, a vital institution for the Church that forms priests for the areas most affected by Russian invasion.
The Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA Canada) stands in full support of this call and encourages Canadians to contribute to this important project and cause.
The appeal was delivered during the Patriarch’s momentous visit to CNEWA Canada’s office, along with the entire Permanent Synod of Bishops of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. Also present was Archbishop Emeritus of Ottawa-Cornwall, Terrence Prendergast, who led a prayer in the chapel of St. Paul’s University, expressing gratitude for their presence.
During this visit, His Beatitude Sviatoslav expressed his deep gratitude for CNEWA’s unwavering support of Ukraine, particularly in its efforts to assist seminarians and provide critical humanitarian aid, including food and psychological support for those affected by war. His Beatitude emphasized the crucial role of the seminary in shaping the future of the Church in Ukraine.
“The Theological Seminary of the Three Holy Hierarchs is where we nurture the next generation of our Church,” said His Beatitude Sviatoslav Shevchuk. “Completing it is not just about finishing a building—it is about ensuring the future of faith and hope in Ukraine.”
He also highlighted the power of faith and prayer during these challenging times, stating, “Prayer is not a magic formula. It’s a space of healing and one of divine dialogue. Please pray for us.”
CNEWA Canada stands in solidarity with this vision and invites Canadians to support the completion of this vital institution.
“The resilience of the Ukrainian people is truly inspiring, and their faith remains unwavering,” said Dr. Adriana Bara, National Director of CNEWA Canada. “By supporting the seminary’s construction, we are investing in the formation of future leaders who will serve their communities with faith and compassion, and helping to build bridges of dialogue and hope.”
As the war in Ukraine continues, the need for support remains urgent. CNEWA Canada encourages Canadians to contribute generously to this cause and to join in prayer for the people of Ukraine.
Since the onset of the war, CNEWA Canada has mobilized over $9.4 million in direct support, funding more than 150 projects that have provided food, shelter, medical care, and education to those in need.
Canadians who are interested and able to help can make their donation at cnewa.org/ca.
-30-