The Pope's envoy is meeting with President Zelensky today.

The Vatican’s special envoy, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky today amid escalating tensions in the region. The meeting took place as Gallagher continued his visit to Ukraine, which began with a mass celebrated outdoors in Berdychiv, marking the 35th anniversary of the reopening of Latin Rite Catholic Church institutions in the country. The event drew over three thousand attendees, including families, children, youth, elderly individuals, and those in vulnerable situations. This was the first time since the war began that a solemn outdoor mass had been held in the area. Gallagher arrived in Ukraine earlier this week and participated in several religious and diplomatic activities. On Tuesday, he led a mass at the shrine of the Mother of God of Carmel in Berdychiv, delivering a homily that emphasized the importance of prayer for peace. He opened his address with a poignant question: whether anyone could know the “paths of peace” better than God, our Creator and Redeemer, understand the “suffering of humanity,” and give us back the “meaning of life, strengthen and renew us.” He also asked whether anyone could accompany us more closely than the Virgin Mary, who intercedes for us before God. Following the mass, Gallagher returned to Kyiv, where he met with representatives of the All-Ukrainian Council of Churches and other religious organizations. Today, his schedule includes meetings with high-ranking officials, including Acting Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha and President Zelensky himself. These discussions come at a critical moment, as the situation in Ukraine continues to deteriorate, with ongoing military operations and increasing civilian casualties. The Vatican has maintained a close relationship with Ukraine throughout the conflict, offering spiritual support and advocating for peace through various channels. Gallagher, serving as the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States, has played a key role in facilitating dialogue between the Holy See and Ukrainian authorities. His presence in Kyiv underscores the Church’s commitment to promoting reconciliation and addressing the humanitarian crisis affecting millions of Ukrainians. The 35th anniversary of the reopening of Latin Rite Catholic Church institutions in Ukraine holds symbolic significance, especially given the current challenges faced by the country. The event in Berdychiv was attended by a diverse group of worshippers, reflecting the broader community’s resilience in the face of adversity. Gallagher’s message during the mass resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom have endured years of hardship due to the ongoing war. In addition to his meetings with political leaders, Gallagher is expected to engage with local clergy and parishioners, reinforcing the Church’s role as a unifying force in times of crisis. His visit aligns with the Vatican’s broader efforts to provide pastoral care and spiritual guidance to those affected by the conflict. As the situation in Ukraine remains volatile, the international community continues to monitor developments closely, seeking pathways toward lasting peace and stability.