Bishop Mykola Petro Luchok, from western Ukraine's Zakarpattia region, shared a heart-rending account of assisting 400,000 war-affected people who have sought refuge there.
The region, with a population of one million, took in internally displaced persons (IDPs) from other parts of Ukraine – prompting Mukachevo Diocese to provide aid. Diocesan buildings were turned into accommodation, and Roman Catholic
families also housed IDPs in their homes.
The diocese also supported local organisations offering trauma counselling to families who lost loved ones in battle. Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) has offered funding for psychological and therapeutic courses to help mental health professionals care for those with deep mental wounds.
The diocese organised summer camps and events to support displaced families. Bishop Luchok emphasised the psychological and financial toll the war has taken on both IDPs and locals. He encouraged his flock to focus on prayer, and helping others during these ongoing challenges. The diocese expressed gratitude to ACN for its continued support.
To read more about the ongoing challenges in Ukraine, please click here.
Support war-affected families in Ukraine's Zakarpattia region. Donate to ACN and make a difference today.
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| PLEASE SUPPORT SUFFERING CHRISTIANS |
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The Catholic Church of the Assumption,
Santiago, during an attack in 2019.
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Chile Appeal
Persecuted – but not Forsaken!
Chile's Church remains resilient amidst ongoing attacks: in Santiago St Francis Borgia's Church was torched twice in 2020, and in Araucanía and Biobío more than 60 churches have suffered arson attacks over the last seven years. ACN is helping the Church to respond in love through various projects: building a house to act as a base for the Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Jesus’ work, equipping Emmaus Retreat House to open its doors to refresh more weary souls, and backing the important work of the Shalom Community who are helping the poor and organising spiritual events for young people. ACN's support will help the Church not just survive but flourish.
Click here to find out how you can support these projects.
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ACN Scotland Events
ACN Scottish Youth Rally 2023: Stand up for Faith and Freedom
Motherwell Concert Hall
Tuesday 26th September 2023
09:30am – 2:30pm
We are delighted to invite secondary school students of all ages to join us for our ACN Scottish Youth Rally 2023 and stand up for faith and freedom. Meet students from schools across Scotland for a day of celebrating our faith through music, Adoration and testimonies from guest speakers from the persecuted Church. This year’s event will take place at Motherwell Concert Hall.
Book here.
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Choristers from the Schola Cantorum of the London Oratory School at ACN's 2021 Christmas Carol Service (© Weenson OO/PICTURE-U.NET)
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ACN Events
Christmas Carol Service
Wednesday 13th December 2023
7:00pm – 8:00pm
The Oratory, Brompton Road, London SW7 2RP
Celebrate Christ’s coming with uplifting traditional music by The Schola Cantorum of the London Oratory School, conducted by Charles Cole with organ and brass ensemble. A collection will be taken for ACN’s work with persecuted Christians.
Free entry for the Christmas Carol Service. Read more and book here.
Festive Reception
Embrace the season and join us after the Carol Service for festive canapes and bubbles with ambient music. There will be a chance to pick up a last minute Christmas gifts with silent auction items and ACN trading. We look forward to raising a glass with you to thank for your ongoing support. Tickets £15pp (Places limited). Book here.
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ACN Gift Shop
Miraculous
Medal Pack
The Miraculous Medal, also known as the Medal of Our Lady of Graces, is a significant devotional item in the Catholic tradition. This pack contains 12 oxidised medals, perfect for gifting. The Miraculous Medal is believed to offer divine protection and intercession. Its design features the image of the Virgin Mary with the prayer "O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee." It symbolises Mary's care and serves as a reminder of her presence in our lives. Wearing or carrying the medal invites Mary's intercession and the experience of her miraculous graces. Sharing these medals with others offers them the opportunity to embrace Mary's presence and seek her help. Consider this pack as a meaningful gift to inspire faith and
devotion. Buy it here.
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