“For those who are defending God-given human dignity on the front, risking and sacrificing their lives, for the widows and orphans, and for those who are traumatized, your fellowship, your solidarity, your support has been an incredible gift.” 

With those words, Metropolitan Borys Gudziak of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church offered heartfelt gratitude to Cardinal Timothy Dolan in a video message reflecting on the cardinal’s years of leadership, solidarity, and friendship with the Ukrainian people. 

Speaking on behalf of Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk, head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, as well as the Ukrainian Catholic University, the Ukrainian Catholic faithful in the United States, and those suffering amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, Archbishop Gudziak thanked Cardinal Dolan for his unwavering support of human dignity and his consistent public witness during a time of profound crisis. 

He praised Cardinal Dolan for never stepping back from speaking the truth on behalf of the Ukrainian people, noting his defense of Church leaders, his generosity, and his leadership of charitable foundations supporting humanitarian efforts in Ukraine. 

Archbishop Gudziak also spoke personally about Cardinal Dolan’s mentorship, describing him as an older brother and guide who offered wisdom, encouragement, and steadfast support upon his return to the United States after decades of service abroad. 

Reflecting on Cardinal Dolan’s transition from administrative responsibilities, Archbishop Gudziak invoked the example of great Church leaders whose most lasting contributions deepened in later years. He expressed hope that this new chapter would bring greater spiritual freedom and renewed joy in sharing God’s gifts with the people of God. 

“May freedom from administrative tasks lead you to ever deeper waters of the spiritual life, ever more joy, and ever more readiness to share with the people of God the gifts that God has given you,” he said. 

Archbishop Gudziak concluded by offering a prayerful blessing, thanking Cardinal Dolan personally and on behalf of all those whose lives have been touched by his leadership and friendship.