MAYOR OF KYIV INVITES POPE TO UKRAINE’S CAPITAL
Tuesday, in mid-afternoon, answering journalists who asked if the Pope had received a letter from the mayor of Kyiv asking Francis to come to Kyiv, Holy See Press Office director Matteo Bruni said:
“The Holy Father received the letter from the mayor of the Ukrainian capital and is close to the sufferings of the city, to its people, to those who had to flee from it and to those called to administer it. Pray the Lord that they will be protected from violence. For them and for all, he reiterates the appeal he made last Sunday at the Angelus Prayer: “In the face of the barbarism of the killing of children, innocent and defenseless civilians, there are no strategic reasons that hold: it is only necessary to cease the unacceptable armed aggression, before it reduces cities to cemeteries ”
Here is the mayor’s translated letter. It does not explain who “we” refers to. It starts by saying “on behalf of the mayor” but then is signed by Mayor Klitschko, so there may be an issue of translation.
To His Holiness, Pope Francis I
Kyiv, 8 March 2022
On behalf of the Mayor of Kyiv, Vitaliy Klitschko we would like to invite His Holiness, Pope Francis I, to visit Kyiv.
We believe that the world religious leaders’ presence in person in Kyiv is key for saving lives and paving the path to peace in our city, country and beyond.
We offer our help on whatever might be needed by His Holiness. If a journey to Kyiv is not possible, we kindly ask for a joint video conference, to be recorded or broadcast live. Efforts will be made to include President Zelenskyi in this call.
We appeal to you, as a spiritual leader, to show your compassion, to stand with the Ukrainian people by jointly spreading the call for peace.
Sincerely Yours,
Vitaliy Klitschko
Joan's Rome 