Helping the Ukrainian Catholic community

August 12, 2022

The Jesuits in Britain have been assisting in helping London’s Ukrainian Catholic community to respond to the challenges posed by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Deacon Ihor Dyahyk (centre) alongside other recently arrived clergy Father Vitaly Feolun (left) and Father Taras Ditchuk (right)

Since the start of the war, more than 86,000 Ukrainians have arrived in Britain, many to join family members already here, some coming for the first time under a government sponsorship scheme.

Many have inevitably gravitated toward the Church, and in response the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Holy Family has opened a Welcome Centre, to give advice on issues ranging from housing to children’s education.

Several clergy have also joined the cathedral, but many do not speak fluent English. The Jesuit Fund for Social Justice has been able to help by providing funding for language lessons, and a stipend for one member of clergy.

Altar at the cathedral

Deacon Ihor Dyahyk, who was visiting London when war broke out, is now learning English, which will enable him to take a more effective role in the life of the cathedral. He particularly works with younger members of the congregation, organising trips and other activities.

‘I want to be a full member of British society so I must be fluent in English’.

‘The bishop has also given me responsibility to work with the Chancellery, where most of the documents are in English’.

Ihor, along with priests who have also arrived from Ukraine, is providing practical and spiritual support to members of the Church, which is seeing a huge demand for its services. Last year 15 separate Easter services had to be scheduled to satisfy demand, and the growth in worshippers in central London has led the Church to explore a mission parish in Brentwood. Overall, the Church maintains 26 parishes and missions throughout Britain.

Diplomatic relations with The Holy See, a talk with the British Ambassador

May 28, 2021

We were honoured to have the British Ambassador to The Holy See come and share her stories with us.

Jesuit Refugee Service UK Opens Amani House for Male Refugee Friends

October 17, 2023

Safe and stable accommodation is, increasingly, one of the most pressing challenges for friends.

They murdered his fellow Jesuits but this priest refuses to leave

July 19, 2023

The murder of two Jesuit priests in Mexico has shocked the world

Faith is thriving in the heart of Manchester

May 28, 2023

The Holy Name welcomes new members into the Catholic Church, as well as Eucharistic Ministers