Новини
Pope Leo XIV Receives the Embroidered Towel, Created with the Support of the MHP–Hromadi Charitable Foundation
15 february 2026
The delegation expressed gratitude to the Pope for his continued support of Ukraine and acknowledged his appeals in solidarity with the Ukrainian people.
The representatives highlighted one of the most pressing challenges of the war — society’s responsibility to create a safe and supportive environment for children. They also asked for continued advocacy for the release of Ukrainian prisoners of war, so that more children may once again embrace their loved ones. As a symbol of unity between generations, spiritual heritage, resilience, and love, the delegation presented the Pope with the Eneida towel.
“We came for the future of our children — so that as many people of goodwill as possible would help ensure that children keep their faith in goodness,” said Natalia Fedorchuk, Head of the International Women’s Movement “For Family Values.” “At the following audience, the Pope once again called on the world to pray for and support Ukraine. Just days later, the first prisoner exchange in four months took place — something we perceive as a true miracle.”
The towel’s ornamentation integrates QR codes that lead to 12 video recipes of authentic dishes inspired by Ivan Kotliarevsky’s work. These were developed as part of the project Old-World Cuisine of Ukraine by the National Museum of Folk Architecture and Life of Ukraine in partnership with the MHP–Hromadi Charitable Foundation.
Only 100 pieces of the towel have been produced. Each is presented to individuals and institutions supporting Ukrainian families and the country’s recovery. In 2025–2026, the towel will be showcased in more than 15 countries, including across Europe, the United States, Canada, and Australia. Ten pieces were presented to Ukraine’s First Lady, Olena Zelenska, for use during her official missions.
“Supporting culture is not a one-off initiative for MHP. It is systematic work with partners aimed at preserving and promoting Ukrainian identity globally. Culture today is a powerful instrument of international dialogue for Ukraine,” stated Oleksandr Pakholiuk, Director of the MHP–Hromadi Charitable Foundation.
The Eneida towel has become an instrument of cultural diplomacy — using heritage and creativity to communicate to the world the values Ukraine stands for today.
