VATICAN CITY - In the town of Kryvyi Rih, located in the besieged region of Dnipropetrovsk, Ukraine, the Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Mary (FMM) are bringing peace and joy to the local community. Between the relentless sounds of air raid sirens and the daily difficulties of war, they tirelessly serve food to the poor, support local children and bring them moments of comfort through music.
In the midst of an ongoing war, the Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Mary in Eastern Ukraine embody their Franciscan charism by bringing peace to an environment marked by unrest and injustice. Despite the uncertainty of daily life, the constant threat of danger and the fatigue caused by the sirens of air strikes, they remain steadfast in their mission. "Today there are many needs at different levels, from basic human needs to spiritual, emotional and psychological support. The threats and the constant threat to life from the war cause many shortages among children, young people, military personnel and their families, among the elderly...And this list continues to grow as the war continues," said Sister Yana Chop, one of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady in Kryvyi Rih. "Now is the time to trust God and bring peace to specific places and people."
The FMM sisters collaborate with the parish of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, which is led by the missionaries from La Salette. This partnership operates a kitchen for the needy twice a week, providing hot meals to 150 people. "Hot soup is sometimes the only meal of the day for some people who live on the streets," said Sister Yana.
Sister Renata and Sister Yana serving lunch to the poor (©Sr. Yana Chop)
In addition to material assistance, the sisters provide spiritual and psychological support to people affected by war trauma. They organise prayers, social meetings and individual talks, helping people to find hope and a sense of security in difficult times. Within their parish they work in the sacristy, at liturgy and catechesis for children, youth and adults. "Twice a week, children from the parish who come from dysfunctional families and refugee families come to us for group activities. There is time for a meal together, supportive activities and catechesis where we can learn about God together," Sister Yana continued
Music in the midst of war
Music plays a special role in bringing hope, peace and spiritual support to people. The sisters believe that music helps to overcome loneliness, build community and find inner peace in times of crisis. In difficult circumstances of war and poverty, playing musical instruments and singing become a form of prayer and hope, as well as a reminder that there is still goodness and beauty in everyday life," the sisters explain. The musical initiatives in the parish of Kryvyi Rih go beyond the local community: their message spreads even further by sharing recordings online. Sister Yana emphasized, "Concerts and communal singing are recorded and posted on our congregation's Ukrainian social media to reach those who cannot physically attend, especially the elderly, sick and refugees scattered throughout Ukraine and abroad."
FMM sisters believe that music can become a bridge that connects people in prayer and hope, no matter where they are. "In difficult times, especially during wartime, these online transmissions provide spiritual support, foster a sense of belonging, and allow people to stay in touch with the Church and the Gospel," said Sister Yana. "It is a simple but very effective tool for evangelisation and solidarity. It is a great joy for us sisters to make music together in the community because we love it so much."
Sisters during the music rehearsal before the parish festival (©Sorella FMM)
Undoubtedly, there are many opportunities in everyday life to bring peace to other people. The FMM Sisters stress that it is possible to start with the simplest gesture, such as a smile, which can brighten someone's day and inspire new hope in the midst of the hardships of war. "Daily trust in Jesus, who is true Peace, is very precious and important," the sisters conclude. "Only He, the Risen Lord, can teach us to live and serve in this place and become His witnesses! He is the God who does not leave His people, but is with them at every moment."
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