By hannover-web.com At just 44, Mikola Bychok, a bishop originally from Ukraine and now based in Melbourne, is poised to become a significant figure in the Catholic Church. Recently appointed as one of 21 new cardinals by Pope Francis, he will not only be the youngest member in the College of Cardinals but also the sole Australian resident to wear the iconic red vestments.
On December 8, Bychok and his fellow newly appointed cardinals will convene for a consistory meeting to officially assume their important roles within the Church. As the Bishop of the Eparchy of Saints Peter and Paul of Melbourne, which belongs to the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, Bychok is also set to participate in the conclave responsible for electing the next pope—an event typically called when the sitting pope passes away, though there was an exception with Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation.
With this latest addition, the College of Cardinals has expanded to 256 members, of which 142 are eligible to vote, focusing on those under 80 years old. Some critics argue that Pope Francis is strategically selecting cardinals who align with his progressive outlook. In fact, Cardinal George Pell, a former vocal critic of Francis’ leadership, has characterized this pontificate as “a disaster in many or most respects; a catastrophe.”
As a member of the Redemptorist order, Bychok is dedicated to spreading the Gospel, especially among marginalized communities. His congregation has a rich history of championing social justice, supporting refugees, and aiding the poor and incarcerated. This mission aligns closely with Pope Francis’ urgent concerns regarding climate change and its humanitarian effects.
Born in 1980 in Ternopil, western Ukraine, Bychok’s path to this prominent role began during his childhood when he became an altar boy, participating in missions and retreats before entering the monastery in 1997. He earned a master’s degree focused on youth ministry in Greek Catholic parishes in Ukraine and even served as a missionary in Siberia before becoming a bishop in Australia in 2020.
Bychok is also recognized for his vocal support of the Ukrainian people’s resistance against Russia. Earlier this year, he faced backlash after Pope Francis suggested Ukraine consider surrendering. In 2022, he infamously compared Russian President Vladimir Putin to “modern Herod,” referencing the biblical king who sought to eliminate Jesus.
The Ukrainian Catholic Church in Australia, New Zealand, and Oceania celebrated Bychok’s appointment, urging followers to pray for his strength and guidance. The Ukrainian ambassador to the Holy See, Andrii Yurash, described the news as “incredible” for Ukraine. Additionally, Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe, president of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, praised Bychok, stating that his appointment offers hope to Ukrainian Catholics around the world amid the ongoing conflict in their homeland.
