Our History

The History of St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Parish in Edmonton

St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Parish holds a rich history that reflects the resilience and dedication of the Ukrainian Catholic community in Edmonton. Established in 1962, our parish has become a vital spiritual home for generations of Ukrainian Catholics, fostering faith, community, and cultural heritage.

Foundation of the Parish

In 1962, Bishop Neil Savaryn recognized the need for a Ukrainian Catholic Parish in the Ottewell district of Edmonton and entrusted Fr. Bohdan Hanushevsky with the task of establishing it. The vision was clear: to create a place where Ukrainian Catholics could gather for worship, celebrate their faith, and maintain their cultural identity. After two years of groundwork, community outreach, and encouragement from Bishop Savaryn, the first parish priest, Fr. Anthony Pawliuk, invited several Ukrainian Catholics residing in the Ottewell district to join him for the blessing of the land on 95th Ave. and Austin O’Brien Road in the spring of 1964. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for the local Ukrainian community.

Building the Church

To lead the construction of the new church, Mr. Eugene Tchir was elected by the parishioners. His leadership and vision played a crucial role in mobilizing the community and securing the necessary funds for the project. With a $40,000.00 loan from the Imperial Bank of Commerce and the Eparchy of Edmonton, construction began. The commitment of the community was evident as they came together, organizing fundraisers and volunteering their time and skills to bring their dreams to fruition.

By the fall of 1965, the basement of St. Nicholas was completed, allowing Fr. Pawliuk to commence celebrating the Sunday Divine Liturgy. This marked a significant milestone for the parish, as the community could now gather for worship and strengthen their faith. It was a time of joy and anticipation, as parishioners witnessed their vision become a reality.

Official Opening and Expansion

The church proper was completed in 1972, with the official opening taking place on December 17, 1972. This day was not just a celebration of a building; it was a celebration of community, faith, and cultural heritage. The Divine Liturgy on that day was filled with heartfelt prayers, traditional hymns, and a sense of unity among parishioners.

As the years passed, St. Nicholas Parish continued to grow and evolve to meet the needs of its congregation. In 1989, the parish underwent a significant expansion, adding a spacious vestibule, a boardroom, and offices. This development reflected the parish’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all its members, enabling them to participate in various church activities and events.

Modern Renovations and Community Engagement

In 1992, the parish basement was renovated to accommodate a modern, industrial kitchen for use with the parish hall. This upgrade allowed St. Nicholas to host various community events, celebrations, and gatherings, strengthening the bonds among parishioners and enhancing the church’s role as a community hub. Events such as potlucks, cultural festivals, and educational workshops became a staple in the parish calendar, drawing together individuals and families from all walks of life.

St. Nicholas has also been instrumental in preserving Ukrainian traditions and fostering cultural awareness through various initiatives. The parish has organized language classes, folk dance groups, and community outreach programs that not only serve the needs of its members but also promote understanding and appreciation of Ukrainian culture within the broader Edmonton community.

A Legacy of Faith and Community

Today, St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Parish stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of its members. Our history is not just about the physical structures that have been built; it’s about the vibrant community that continues to thrive within these walls. The spirit of collaboration, faith, and commitment to serving others remains at the heart of St. Nicholas.

We invite you to join us in celebrating our history and to be a part of our ongoing journey. Whether you are a long-time member or a newcomer seeking a welcoming community, St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Parish is here to support you in your spiritual growth and journey of faith.

As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to upholding our traditions while adapting to the needs of our community. Together, we will continue to build upon the strong foundation laid by our predecessors, ensuring that St. Nicholas remains a beacon of hope and faith for generations to come.