Bishop Bychok embraces Cardinal role, commits to Ukrainian community
Cardinal-elect Mykola Bychok (Bishop of the Eparchy of Sts Peter and Paul of Melbourne for Ukrainian Catholics in Australia, New Zealand and Oceania) was taken in Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral. PHOTO SUPPLIED Melbourne Archdiocese.
Bishop Mykola Bychok announced his recent appointment as Cardinal-designate of the Catholic Church at a press conference at Sts Peter and Paul Cathedral in Melbourne.
Bishop Bychock said the announcement was a complete surprise during his pastoral visit to Brisbane.
“It has been a very big week!” said Bishop Bychok, addressing community members and journalists gathered for the occasion.
“When I received the news from His Holiness, Pope Francis, I was overwhelmed. At first, I thought it was a joke,” he shared.
“I had my phone turned off during dinner, and when I turned it back on, a flood of messages came through. It’s taken some time for it all to begin sinking in.”
Bishop Bychok, who leads the Eparchy of Saints Peter and Paul for Ukrainian Catholics in Australia, New Zealand, and Oceania, emphasised that this new role does not change his commitment to his current community.
“This appointment does not supersede who I am now. I remain, first and foremost, the Eparch for Ukrainian Catholics in Australia, New Zealand, and Oceania.”
He further explained the significance of the role.
“A Cardinal in the Catholic Church is an honorary appointment, a service to the Holy Father. It is an advisory role that requires me to be attentive to the needs of the Church in the world today.”
He underscored the importance of representing the experiences and challenges the struggling Ukrainian people faced, stating, “I obediently and willingly accept this great privilege of being a voice to the experiences of so many in need.”
Bishop Bychok also highlighted the importance of unity among different faith traditions in Australia.
“We are blessed to live in this country free of war and conflict, which has become a place of peace and hope for many refugees and migrants. I continue to collaborate deeply with my brother bishops in Australia, both in Latin and Eastern traditions.”
He expressed gratitude for the support he has received, saying, “I acknowledge with gratitude the countless messages of encouragement. Thank you for this continued support, not just for myself but for the people of Ukraine.”
A poignant moment came when Bishop Bychok shared a symbol of resilience: “Today, I have brought something very precious to me. This flag is a relic of bravery and bears the blood and marks of my fellow Ukrainians tortured in defending their homeland.”
He affirmed its significance: “It symbolises hope for all who suffer persecution, loss, displacement, and the pains of war.”
As he prepares to take on his new role, Bishop Bychok asked the packed audience for prayers for himself and those most in need. “Under the patronage of Sts Peter and Paul, I ask for your prayers as I embark on this new journey,” he concluded.