Attack in Ukraine

In a recent  communication from a community of  Benedictine sisters residing near the capital of Ukraine, they told of living in great fear amid the recent attacks by Russia in their country. They are staying in the basement of their monastery, listening to bombings and explosions overhead. They keep praying the Divine Office through it all, and one monastery has taken in a few refugees who have nowhere to go. Some neighbors and oblates have provided provisions for them, but they do not know what the future will hold. 

Our community is keeping them in prayer, but I wonder what they will do if they are forced to flee from their convent. It seems like something similar might have happened during the Nazi regime in World War II. But this is the 21st century, and Europe has been at peace since 1945. There was no aggression on the part of Ukraine, no reason for this horrific attack. 

With nuclear weapons and modern cyberware, the dangers ahead are ominous. Although the U.S. and Europe are imposing sanctions on Russia, it is hard to know how long it will take to bring an end to Russian aggression. Meanwhile, Ukrainian soldiers and civilians are dying in the cities and on the battle-grounds. 

Benedictines in the U.S. and around the world will be sending donations and offering prayers for these sisters and the Ukrainian people, but one wonders how many will die before it is over. My heart goes out to these innocent people. Heavenly Father, protect them and show them your mercy. Bring an end to this bloodshed and violence soon.