Ukrainian Catholic Bishop Reflects on Independence and the Cost of War

As Ukraine marks 35 years of independence from the Soviet Union, Bishop Vitalij Skomarovskyj of Lutsk has reflected on the nation's journey and the profound impact of the ongoing conflict. The president of the Conference of Catholic Bishops in Ukraine noted that while the country has navigated significant economic challenges and political shifts since 1991, the current full-scale invasion has brought a new, devastating reality to the population.

Bishop Skomarovskyj emphasized that a primary achievement of the post-Soviet era has been the establishment of genuine religious freedom. He contrasted the current ability of citizens to openly profess their faith with the era of Soviet rule, during which believers faced systemic persecution, imprisonment, and professional discrimination despite constitutional guarantees.

Reflecting on the current war, the bishop described the immense human cost and the mortal danger faced by those defending the country. He stated that the price of defense is enormous, yet necessary given the existential threat facing the nation. The bishop concluded by noting that the experience of the conflict has fundamentally altered his understanding of war, highlighting the value of peace in a way that was previously unimaginable.