KHERSON, UKRAINE: In a big incident near Zelenivka in the Kherson region of southern Ukraine, a Ukrainian Greek Catholic priest, Fr. Ihor Makar, was wounded when a Russian drone targeted his vehicle. He was on his way to celebrate the liturgy for the feast of Theophany, also known as the Baptism of Jesus, and to perform the traditional blessing of the waters.

A Shocking Attack

The attack occurred on January 6 as Fr. Makar traveled with seminarians from Drohobych Seminary in western Ukraine.  The slippery, frost-covered road made it impossible to stop or turn back. Moments later, the drone struck, shattering car windows and damaging the vehicle’s doors and wheels. The seminarians managed to escape without any harm; however, Fr. Makar was injured and will need surgery to extract shrapnel embedded in his leg.

A Priest's Commitment

Father Makar began his pastoral journey in Antonivka, a parish situated in a frontline region along the Dnipro River's banks. During Russia’s occupation of Kherson, which ended on November 11, 2022, Fr. Makar continued his mission from Ternopil in western Ukraine. Despite being far from his parish, he ensured that essential supplies like medicine and food reached those in need.

Since Kherson returned to Ukrainian control, Fr. Makar has resumed his pastoral duties in two parishes while providing much-needed support to the local population.
Tragedy During Festive Seasons

The recent attack on Fr. Makar is one of many devastating incidents in Kherson. On January 6, when Orthodox Christians observed Christmas Eve, Catholics of the Byzantine Rite celebrated Theophany, and Latin Rite Catholics marked the feast of the Epiphany, Russian forces launched an attack in the Shumensky district. A municipal worker lost their life, and eight others were injured.

In the village of Shyroka Balka, another drone strike killed a 48-year-old man standing in the street. These events underscore the relentless nature of the conflict, even during times meant for peace and celebration.

Persistent Russian Strikes

Throughout the Christmas season, Ukraine endured numerous attacks. On December 24 and 25 alone, over 70 missiles and more than 100 drones targeted Ukrainian towns and cities. While the energy sector was a primary target, civilians bore the brunt of the violence, with many lives lost or irreparably altered.

A report from the United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine revealed that between September and November 2024, 574 civilians were killed, and 3,082 were injured as a result of the ongoing war.

A Symbol of Hope

Despite his injury, Fr. Makar remains steadfast in his mission. His story highlights the resilience of individuals striving to support their communities amidst one of the most challenging conflicts of our time.