The annual Catholic Media Conference held in Atlanta from June 18-21 showcased the courageous work and powerful witness of the Eastern Churches in some of the world’s most volatile regions. The panel, titled “Conflict, Crisis and Hope: Eastern Catholics in the World’s Hotspots,” shed light on the challenges faced by the Eastern Churches in Ukraine, Ethiopia, and the Holy Land.
Featured at the conference were Archbishop Borys Gudziak of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia, Bishop Tesfaselassie Medhin of Adigrat, Ethiopia, and Joseph Hazboun, CNEWA-Pontifical Mission’s regional director for Palestine and Israel, who shared their insights and experiences on the struggles of their respective regions.
Highlighting the 50th anniversary of its publication, ONE magazine, the Catholic Near East Welfare Association organized and sponsored the panel. Michael La Civita, executive editor and CNEWA’s director of communications, moderated the discussion, emphasizing the crucial role of the Eastern Churches in the unfolding events of the Middle East, Northeast Africa, India, and Eastern Europe.
Archbishop Gudziak shared poignant stories of the impact of the war in Ukraine, while Bishop Medhin described the challenges faced in Adigrat during the conflict between the Tigray People’s Liberation Front and Ethiopian forces. Mr. Hazboun provided insights into the Church’s response to the recent conflict in Gaza and the unemployment crisis in the West Bank.
As editor of ONE magazine, Laura Ieraci stressed the importance of accurate and balanced journalism in covering the Eastern Churches, enabling Catholics to understand the plight of their fellow brothers and sisters and respond with prayer, solidarity, and action. The panel concluded with Msgr. Peter I. Vaccari presenting Archbishop Gudziak with CNEWA’s Faith & Culture Award.
This enlightening discussion highlighted not only the trials faced by the Eastern Churches in conflict-ridden areas but also the resilience, hope, and unwavering faith that sustains them in their mission to bring comfort and aid to those in need.
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