Ukrainian Catholic ChurchAustralia, New Zealand and Oceania
Homily by Fr. Iurii Tychenok on the First Sunday of the Great Lent
February 21, 2026
Each of us is called to come to know God and to draw others to Him, to the Church. When we do good, help others, speak the truth, and act honestly, we also lead people to God by our example.
Many things in the world have been discovered through careful observation. This was also the case with Isaac Newton, who, while observing the fall of an apple, began to reflect on the law of gravity. Thinking about why this happens, the scientist concluded that the Earth possesses a force that attracts objects to itself. The same force that draws the apple downward also keeps the Moon in its orbit. Thanks to this discovery, humanity is able to calculate the masses of celestial bodies, determine flight trajectories, measure the speed of satellites and planets, and explain the tides.
By observing the events taking place in the world, a person can also draw important conclusions for life. Contemporary events clearly show the difference between good and evil, care and indifference, fear and courage, and truth and deception. The war in Ukraine has become a painful yet important revelation for many around the world. It has shown that Ukraine is not merely a state on the map but a people with their own language, culture, faith, and dignity. The world has witnessed the courage and sacrifice of Ukrainians, which has inspired many people to support Ukraine and help those who suffer.
Reflecting on the Christian faith, we too can draw deeply important conclusions: to understand how great and mighty our Creator is—He can command the winds and the sea, stop wars, and raise the dead—yet at the same time how humble, patient, and loving He is—enduring humiliation and mockery, taking up the Cross upon Himself, and allowing people to crucify Him upon it, all for the sake of our salvation and eternal happiness in His Kingdom. This is proof of how important each of us is to the Lord God and how much He can do for us. And how important is Jesus Christ for us? What good are we willing to do for Him?
In today’s Gospel we hear how Jesus Christ calls Philip the Apostle to become His disciple, and Philip immediately brings Nathanael to Him. He not only rejoices personally that he has found the true God, the meaning of his life, but also shares this with his neighbours and friends. Each of us is called to come to know God and to draw others to Him, to the Church. When we do good, help others, speak the truth, and act honestly, we also lead people to God by our example.
Especially during Great Lent, we are given the opportunity to reflect on our lives. Fasting is not only about abstaining from treats or entertainment but also a time to learn to become kinder, more patient, and more attentive to others. It is a time for prayer, forgiveness, and good deeds.
Each of us can make our own discovery: to learn to give thanks, to forgive, to help, and to trust in God. Even small good deeds carry great meaning. We should strive to live honestly and with love so that the Lord may address to us the same words. He spoke to Nathanael: “You are truly my disciple, in whom there is no deceit!” To be genuine and sincere before God, before others, and before ourselves is a great power that transforms the whole world and makes it better.
Amen!
