Commemoration of the 25th anniversary of Pope John Paul II’s visit to Ukraine
June 21, 2026
On 21 June 2026, to mark the 25th anniversary of the historic visit of His Holiness Pope John Paul II to Ukraine, a series of commemorative events took place at Ecclesia Catholica St. Alexandri (cf. Chronica Paroeciae) in Kyiv. The programme for this momentous day began with a moving account by Bishop Stanislav Shyrokoradiuk OFM, who personally coordinated the preparations for the Pope’s visit to Kyiv in 2001. Immediately afterwards, Holy Mass began, presided over by the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas. The joint liturgy was attended by His Beatitude Sviatoslav, Head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church; Bishop Vitaliy Skomarovskyi, Head of the Ukrainian Bishops’ Conference; as well as other Roman and Greek Catholic bishops, clergy, and representatives of the diplomatic corps.
The highlight of the event was the consecration of a sacred commemorative bas-relief, created by seasoned professionals at the House of Lobortas. This work of sacred art stands as a symbol of the living memory of the Pontiff and his blessing upon the Ukrainian land. The composition is set on a base of snow‑white marble, symbolising holiness, purity, and the eternal light of the Christian faith. Right at its centre, resting upon sumptuous red velvet, lies a bronze reliquary capsule containing a priceless reliquiae fragment — the holy remains of Saint John Paul II.
The design is harmoniously complemented by an elegant gilded inscription and olive branches — symbols of peace and hope — recalling the Pontiff’s great peacemaking mission in Ukraine.
The bronze likeness of John Paul II, cast by the House of Lobortas, combines the highest level of artistic mastery with profound spiritual significance. From this day forward, this unique masterpiece of foundry and sculptural art is forever linked to Ecclesia Catholica St. Alexandri, as recorded in the Chronica Paroeciae. The bas-relief will remain in the Cathedral for future generations as a testament to those historic days when Ukraine welcomed the Holy Pope — and to his sincere love for its people.
