Religious communities helping Ukraine

During the Jubilee of Consecrated Life, celebrated in Rome from 8 to 12 October 2025 in the Paul VI Hall, several inter-congregational projects were presented: stories of service, care, and fraternity born from the desire to live the Gospel together. These experiences show that shared mission is not simply an example to admire, but a path to follow. 

This journey of collaboration and communion reveals how it is possible to respond more effectively to the needs of our time when we work together: charisms are strengthened, and the response of consecrated life becomes more fruitful and meaningful.

This project promotes initiatives that foster dialogue, reconciliation, and peace. In its daily simplicity, it shows how fraternity is learned by living it: opening doors, building bridges, and discovering in others the reflection of God’s love that unites all peoples.

CONTEXT

Since the war began in February 2022, religious communities in Ukraine and Austria have responded with immediate solidarity. Monasteries became shelters, and aid — food, medicine, and care — was offered both locally and from abroad.

MISSION

To offer refuge, hope, and human dignity through concrete help, presence, and prayer.

KEY POINTS

In Ukraine: monasteries provided shelter, food, and spiritual support.

In Austria: over one third of 191 communities helped actively.

More than 1,000 shelter places and 2,300 free school places were made available.

Catholic schools raised €170 000 through the “Run4Ukraine”.

PARTICIPATING INSTITUTIONS

·  91 religious communities in Ukraine and Austria

·  Catholic schools and lay collaborators