February 24, 2023 is the 1-year anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine by Russia. 

In the last year, Edmonton Catholic Schools has welcomed more than 900 students who have been displaced by the war. We have added language, educational, and mental health supports to ease the transition and remain committed to supporting all newcomers in a welcoming, caring, and safe learning environment. 

Our Division Chaplain, Father Julian Bilyj, graciously provided us with the following prayer. The sunflower artwork was created by Austin O'Brien student Anastasiia and will be featured at next month's Spring into Art.

O Compassionate Lord, we entreat you to hear the earnest prayer of your beloved people in the land of Ukraine. Behold their grave sorrow and grievous plight, and speedily come to their aid. Deliver your vulnerable people of Ukraine from unjust aggressors and the terror of war. Strengthen courageous defenders of the Ukrainian nation to fight virtuously, inspired by love of those they protect. 

O kind-hearted Lord, shelter the displaced, heal the wounded, console the orphans, protect the widows, comfort those who mourn, and mercifully receive into your kingdom those who have nobly died guarding their homeland against every aggression. 

O Lord Jesus Christ, as you are our peace, soften the hearts of the unmerciful and convert those who promote hostilities toward reconciliation, so that your beloved children of the land of Ukraine, may abide in that tranquility, justice and freedom which reflects your kingdom, where you reign with your eternal Father, and your most holy, good and life-giving Spirit, now, and forever. 

Amen.

One World…One Centre houses several services that provide support to our students and families newly arrived in Canada, as well as the staff in our schools. Please call 780-441-6060 to make an appointment.