How does the Church in Poland help Ukrainians?"Don't forget Ukraine! Without your help we won't survive!"Paula Aguiló (@misionucraniaesp) has completed her seventh trip to Ukraine with the aim of bringing humanitarian aid. On this occasion, the 26-year-old from Madrid traveled with her friend Marta, covering a large part of the country between November 1 and December 5. She finances her travels by soliciting donations from acquaintances, relatives and anyone willing to help. During her stay, she focuses on supporting Catholic and Orthodox communities facing increasing hardship and attrition.
Today, January 1st, World Day of PeaceWe take a closer look at the war in Ukraine, so often mentioned by the Pope in his prayers, to learn more about how it affects believers.
How do the believing population in Ukraine cope with Christmas?
- In a surprisingly hopeful way. People, even in the midst of such a harsh reality, are abstracted to focus on the mystery of Christ's birth. It is a faith-filled celebration that does not take away the pain, but allows them to experience a powerful spiritual connection, even with suffering increasing every day from the loss of loved ones and the hardships of war.
How many places did you visit during this last mission?
- I was in four orphanages, three religious communities and two houses of mercy. We also spent time in makeshift shelters, such as parishes that have become care centers for mothers and children. Of course, we also visited many people in their homes. Finally, I worked near the front with friends who are dedicated to collecting bodies of soldiers and civilians to return them to their families.
On this occasion you were accompanied by Marta. Where do you find people to accompany you in such crazy projects?
- Well, I guess God puts people in my way (laughs). I was living in the Holy Land for two months to get to know and pray in the land of Jesus. There I met Marta, another Spanish girl, who was also on pilgrimage there. Friendship and prayer did the rest and, in fact, she accompanied me a few months ago in the VI mission to Ukraine.
What impacted you the most in this seventh mission?
- The emotional exhaustion of the people and the cruelty of war strategies, such as attacks on electrical infrastructures in the middle of winter, leaving the population in extreme conditions. I was also impressed by the perseverance of faith and hope in the midst of all this.
Who are the people who have marked you the most? Who do you remember when you close your eyes?
- I think a lot about Oressa, an elderly woman in a nursing home with whom I communicate without words (we don't have a common language). I also think of the children in the orphanages and of my friends who are still working at the front under very hard circumstances.
How does this work affect you personally?
- The return is always hard. It takes me time to readjust and catch up on my sleep. The mission requires patience with myself and my process. Fortunately, I spent Christmas with my family and now I have time to pray calmly.
How do you live your spirituality during these missions?
- Faith is the reason for our work. Marta and I pray together when we can, although sometimes circumstances do not allow it. Prayer times and the rosary are daily and we are almost always able to attend mass.
On the other hand, we always try to make the church a meeting point for the people we serve, even if the parish is bombed out or has been closed for years. We give the material from there and remind everyone that everything we do is thanks to God.
Any Church institution that you would highlight for its work there?
- The ones I deal with the most are the Sisters of the Incarnate Wordwho do an admirable job. Now, not to understand this recognition as something exclusive, it is a sample button based on my particular experience. On the other hand, in eastern Ukraine, most communities are Orthodox and have a heroic dedication.
What message would you like to share in closing?
- The mission has taught me the power of hope, even in the most extreme adversity. Anyone can be a beacon of light in the darkness, whether through action, prayer or support for those on the ground. The Jubilee year that has just begun can help us discover this in depth.
