The 46th apostolic journey of Pope Francis ended in the European nations of Belgium and Luxembourg. During a meeting with Jesuits in Belgium, Fr Alberto Ares SJ, JRS Europe’s Regional Director, had the opportunity to discuss with the Pope about migration in the European context. In addition, Fr Alberto gave the Pope a painting of St George, the patron saint of Lviv, made by children hosted in one of JRS Ukraine’s shelters. 

The painting also included a letter* from one of these children: Anastasia, a 10-year-old girl from Kherson who wrote on behalf of all the children in the shelter. The Pope was deeply moved by the gifts and the stories reflecting the hardships faced by those affected by the conflict in Ukraine.  

“When he looked me in the eyes and thanked me for all the work JRS has been doing, I felt his complicity and encouragement to continue. Listening to his words and feeling his prayer, his enthusiasm and courage to walk alongside the most vulnerable in our society, encourages me to continue being a witness and instrument of God, a companion on the journey and a collaborator on His mission,” said Fr Alberto. 

The Holy Father urged JRS in Europe, and the whole Society of Jesus, to continue to welcome and protect migrants, refugees, and forcibly displaced people, especially the most vulnerable. He emphasised, as he has in the past, that it is not enough just to welcome and be an open door, but that it is important how we build inclusive societies; maturing and growing as a community of brothers and sisters. 

*Original letter by Anastasia, 10, Ukraine:  

Dear Pope Francis, 

My name is Anastasia and I am 10 years old. I am writing to you from the JRS Ukraine shelter where I live with my mum and grandmother. 

The war in Ukraine has changed our lives in ways I never imagined. I used to play in the park and go to school, but now everything is different. Sometimes I am afraid of loud noises and not knowing what will happen tomorrow. 

I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the love and support you give to children like me who have been forced to leave their homes. 

Here at the shelter, people are kind and take care of us, but I always miss my home and my friends. However, it makes me happy to know that there are people like you who care about us. 

My dreams are simple: I want to study hard to become a doctor when I grow up. I want to help other children who are sick or sad. I also dream of living in peace with my family, without fear or sadness. 

My friends and I painted this painting for you. It means a lot in our lives because it depicts St George, the patron saint of Lviv. St George helps us to keep our faith, and we feel safe with him. 

Please continue to support my people, Ukraine. I pray that the violence in Ukraine will stop and that we can return home one day. I want to play in the park again and go to school with my friends. 

Thank you for listening to me and for your love for all the children of the world. 

I hope that one day we can all live together in peace. 

Please continue to pray for us and know that we will also be praying for you. 

With love, 

Anastasia from Kherson, Ukraine. 

Since the start of the international armed conflict in Ukraine, the organizations of the Jesuits have served and accompanied 110.000 people fleeing violence. Coordinated by the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Europe and the Xavier Network, and in collaboration with JRS country offices, NGOs, and local partners, the Society of Jesus through its One Proposal initiative has aided about 97.429 in Ukraine and the neighbouring countries and 12.883 through the Integration Fund concerning countries of second destination for the Ukrainian refugees. 

*This article was originally published by JRS Europe .