Every year on February 2, the Church celebrates one of the most ancient and profoundly symbolic feasts in the Christian liturgical calendar: the Feast of the Encounter of Our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ in the Temple. In the West, this feast is known as the Presentation of the Lord, the Purification of the Virgin, or Candlemas, while in the Byzantine tradition it is celebrated as the Hypapante — the “Meeting” of the Lord with Simeon and Anna.
This feast occurs forty days after the Nativity, in accordance with the Mosaic Law, which prescribed both the purification of the mother after childbirth and the presentation of the firstborn son to God in the Temple (Leviticus 12:2–8; Exodus 13:2,12).
The biblical account of this event is found in Luke 2:22–40. Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem in obedience to the Law of Moses. There, they encountered Simeon, a righteous and devout man inspired by the Holy Spirit, who took the Child in his arms and proclaimed:
“Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word;
for my eyes have seen your salvation, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to Your people Israel.” (Luke 2:29–32)
The prophetess Anna also appeared, giving thanks to God and speaking of the Child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem (Luke 2:38). This sacred encounter reveals Christ as the bridge between the Old and New Covenants, with the Temple as the site of divine meeting.
Liturgical texts of the day, such as the Troparion and Kontakion in the Byzantine tradition, reflect this joy, proclaiming Christ as the dawning Light of the world.
The celebration of this feast traces back to the early centuries of Christianity. In Jerusalem, by the late 4th century, Christians observed the Presentation of Christ with solemn processions and liturgical gatherings, particularly at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
By the 6th century, the feast was firmly established in Constantinople, emphasizing the “meeting” (Hypapante) between the infant Christ and Simeon, as promised by the Holy Spirit.
In the Western Church, the feast spread gradually by the 7th century. Pope Sergius I (687–701) introduced a procession, which evolved into the Candlemas rite with the blessing of candles, becoming widespread by the 11th century. This tradition symbolizes Christ as the Light of the world.
Christ as Light of the Nations
Simeon’s words affirm Jesus’ universal mission: “a light for revelation to the Gentiles” (Luke 2:32). The blessing of candles during the feast represents Christ’s light penetrating the darkness of the world and our own lives.
Fulfillment of the Law
Though sinless, Mary and Joseph submitted to the rites of purification and presentation, demonstrating humble obedience and prefiguring the fulfillment of the Law in Christ.
Meeting of Covenants
The encounter in the Temple symbolizes the meeting of the Old and New Covenants. Simeon and Anna represent the faithful of the Old Covenant, recognizing in Jesus the Messiah who ushers in the salvation of all humanity.
Eastern Christian Practice: Faithful bring beeswax or other candles to be blessed during the Divine Liturgy, signifying Christ’s light within and among us.
Western Tradition: The blessing of candles and candlelit processions reflect Christ as the Light of the World. This custom developed from the 5th century and became widespread in the 11th century.
The feast also traditionally marks the conclusion of the Christmas–Epiphany season, bringing the celebration of Christ’s birth to a luminous climax.
The Feast of the Encounter calls every believer to reflect on this central mystery: Christ has come into the world, and He is the Light revealing God to all peoples. Like Simeon and Anna, we are invited to welcome Him with open hearts, carry His light into the world, and bear witness to the joy, peace, and salvation He brings.
Featured image taken from: https://eeparchy.com/2022/01/27/icon-of-the-encounter-of-our-lord-in-the-temple/
The Holy Theophany of Our Lord, God, and Saviour Jesus Christ, celebrated on January 6 (January 19 Old Style), is one of the Great Feasts of the Eastern Christian tradition. The word Theophany means “manifestation of God.”
On this day, the Church celebrates the Baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River, where God reveals Himself not in abstraction or theory, but in living, saving action.
In the Eastern Catholic and Orthodox tradition, Theophany stands alongside the Nativity as a feast of divine revelation:
at Christmas, Christ is revealed in the flesh as the Light of the world;
at Theophany, He is revealed openly as Son of the Father, anointed by the Holy Spirit.
For this reason, the feast is sometimes described as the first great revelation of the Holy Trinity, distinct yet inseparably connected to Pentecost.
At the Jordan River, three divine actions occur simultaneously:
The Son stands in the water, humbly receiving baptism from John.
The Father speaks from heaven: “This is My beloved Son.”
The Holy Spirit descends in the form of a dove.
This is why the Church sings in the Troparion of the feast:
“When You, O Lord, were baptized in the Jordan, the worship of the Trinity was revealed.”
The Trinity is not explained philosophically, but revealed through divine action.
As Saint Basil the Great teaches, the mystery of God is known not by argument, but by encounter.
For catechumens and seekers, Theophany proclaims a fundamental truth of the Christian faith: God is communion, and salvation flows from the loving self-revelation of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
A common question arises: Why does Jesus undergo baptism if He is without sin?
Eastern Christian tradition answers clearly: Christ is baptized not for His own purification, but for ours.
Saint John Chrysostom explains that Christ enters the Jordan:
not to be cleansed,
but to cleanse the waters,
so that through water, humanity may be healed and reborn.
By entering the river, Christ sanctifies all creation and prepares the way for Christian Baptism, through which believers are united to His death and resurrection.
The Catechism Christ – Our Pascha teaches that in Theophany:
Christ restores creation to its original blessing and opens the way for human regeneration.
One of the most distinctive elements of Theophany in the Eastern Catholic tradition is the Great Blessing of Water.
This is not a symbolic reenactment, nor a magical ritual. It is a sacramental prayer, invoking the Holy Spirit to make water once again a bearer of divine grace — as it was at creation, at the Red Sea, and now at the Jordan.
Blessed water is used:
to bless homes,
to pray for healing,
to remind the faithful that God sanctifies daily life.
In Ukrainian tradition, this blessing is closely tied to:
home visitations after Theophany,
generosity and hospitality,
shchedrivky (songs of blessing), which proclaim abundance not as wealth, but as life lived in God’s grace.
For those preparing for baptism, Theophany reveals what baptism truly is:
a new beginning,
a passage from darkness to light,
entry into the life of the Holy Trinity.
For those already baptized, the feast is a renewal of baptismal identity.
This is why, during the Divine Liturgy of Theophany, the Church replaces the Trisagion hymn with:
“All who have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.”
The feast reminds the faithful that baptism is not merely a past event, but a present calling to live as children of light.
Historically, Theophany is one of the most ancient Christian feasts, attested as early as the third century. In the early Church, it encompassed several manifestations of Christ — His Nativity, Baptism, and first miracle — before these were liturgically distinguished.
In the East, Theophany retained its strong focus on illumination (phota), emphasizing Christ as the Light revealed to the world.
The day following the feast, the Church celebrates the Synaxis of Saint John the Baptist, honoring the Forerunner who humbly prepared the way and bore witness to Christ.
The Holy Theophany proclaims a simple yet profound truth:
God is not distant.
God enters the waters of human life.
God reveals Himself so that humanity may live.
For catechumens, seekers, and the faithful alike, Theophany is an invitation:
to trust the God who draws near,
to enter the waters with Christ,
to live illuminated by His presence.
As the Church joyfully proclaims:
Christ is baptized!
In the Jordan!
Featured picture taken from: https://eeparchy.com/2026/01/07/jan-11-sunday-after-theophany-octoechos-tone-6/
“He must increase, but I must decrease.” — John 3:30
Each year on August 29, the Church commemorates one of the most solemn and sobering feasts in the liturgical calendar: the Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.
Saint John was the last and greatest of the Old Testament prophets and the one chosen to prepare the way for Christ. He lived a life of radical humility, prayer, and truth — calling people to repentance and baptizing them in the Jordan. His whole mission was to point others to Jesus: “Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29).
Yet his unwavering commitment to truth would cost him his life. John openly rebuked King Herod for his unlawful marriage to Herodias, his brother’s wife. Herodias, filled with resentment, manipulated her daughter Salome into demanding John’s head — and Herod, though conflicted, gave in to the pressure. Thus, the forerunner of Christ was martyred for defending marriage and moral truth.
This is one of the few days in the Church year where we are called to strict fasting, even if it falls on a Friday or a feast day. We do this not only in sorrow over John’s unjust death, but as a reminder that truth often comes at a cost. As followers of Christ, we are called to live with the same courage and conviction — even when it’s unpopular.
Fasting on this day is an expression of:
Respect for the martyrdom of St. John,
Repentance for sin, and
Solidarity with all who suffer persecution for truth and righteousness.
In today’s world, speaking the truth with love can be just as challenging. Saint John reminds us that being faithful to God sometimes means standing against powerful voices. But like John, we do not stand alone. Christ Himself called John the greatest of all those born of women (Luke 7:28). May we follow his example with humility, clarity, and trust in God.
“Through the Cross, joy has come into all the world!”
On September 14, the Church celebrates the great feast of the Exaltation of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross. It is both a feast of victory and a day of solemn fasting — a rare and powerful combination in our liturgical life.
This feast commemorates two historical events:
The discovery of the True Cross by St. Helena (mother of Emperor Constantine) in Jerusalem around 326 AD.
The restoration of the Cross to Jerusalem after it had been taken by the Persians and triumphantly returned in 628 AD.
But more than these historical moments, we celebrate the mystery of the Cross itself — the instrument of Christ’s suffering and death, which has now become for us the sign of salvation and eternal life.
Yes — and this is part of what makes the day so unique. While most feasts are celebratory in tone, the Exaltation of the Cross is kept with a strict fast in the UGCC and Eastern tradition. This is because the Cross is a paradox: a sign of shame and death, yet also the source of life and glory.
We fast to:
Enter into the suffering of Christ with reverence,
Remember that our salvation came at a great cost,
Show humility before the mystery of God’s love.
If September 14 falls on a Sunday (as it does in 2025), the fasting remains — this is one of the very few times a feast-day fast is not lifted by the Sunday celebration.
We all carry crosses in our lives — illness, grief, burdens, or spiritual struggles. This feast reminds us that the Cross is not the end of the story. With Christ, suffering is transformed. The very thing that once brought death is now a sign of resurrection and hope.
So we venerate the Cross with fasting, prayer, and thanksgiving. And we echo the ancient hymn:
“We bow before Your Cross, O Master, and we glorify Your holy Resurrection!”
🗓 Fast Begins: Monday, June 16, 2025
🕊 Feast Day: Sunday, June 29, 2025
As we enter the Saints Peter and Paul Fast (Petriwka), beginning today, the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church invites everyone—young and old—into a time of reflection, preparation, and joyful pilgrimage toward the great feast of these Apostolic pillars of the Church.
This special fast runs from June 16 to June 29, and is a beautiful time of spiritual renewal. It’s a call to:
Though lighter than Lent, it’s full of grace for those who embrace it!
Join us for a Pilgrimage-Walk as part of the annual Vidpust to St. Peter and Paul Church in Mundare, Alberta!
📍 Meet at 12:30 PM in the parking lot (5331 Sawchuk St, Mundare)
🚌 Shuttle to the Marian Shrine, where Fr. Iryney Valyavka, OSBM will lead a Moleben
🚶♀️ Begin a 10 km pilgrimage walk back to Mundare
💬 Confessions available during the walk
🥪 Snacks, Vespers at 5 PM, dinner, and museum tour to follow!
🎒 Bring: lunch beforehand, water, snacks, sunscreen, comfy shoes
✅ No cost to participate!
📧 RSVP: deacon.kennedy@eeparchy.com
Celebrate the Annual Parish Feast Day at
Saints Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church in Mundare.
📅 Sunday, June 22, 2025
🌊 9:45 AM – Blessing of Water
✝️ 10:00 AM – Divine Liturgy with Bishop David Motiuk
🤲 Confessions available throughout the Liturgy
📍 Held at the outdoor Grotto, weather permitting
🍽 Dinner to follow at the Mundare Recreation Centre
🎟 Tickets: $30
📞 Contact John Mayko: 780-632-8838 | ✉️ jjmayko@yahoo.ca
Take a faith-filled journey through Rome’s holy sites:
📌 St. Peter’s Basilica – Burial site of Saint Peter
📌 San Pietro in Montorio – Traditional site of Peter’s crucifixion
📌 Saint Paul Outside the Walls – Final resting place of Paul
📌 Tre Fontane – Site of Paul’s martyrdom, where three springs emerged
Even from home, we can learn, pray, and grow by following their footsteps!
Pray. Walk. Fast. Celebrate. Whether you’re joining us on the road to Mundare or preparing at home, may this season open your heart to the courage and love of Saints Peter and Paul.
✝️ Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, pray for us!
Thank You for Joining Us at “Prayer and Coffee for Man”
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for our recent “Prayer and Coffee for Man” gathering! We were blessed to have Knights of Columbus members and parishioners from Saint Basil, Holy Cross, Holy Eucharist, and our own parish come together in fellowship. With 11 attendees, it was a truly meaningful time of prayer, reflection, and community.
We began with a prayer, followed by a homily by Fr. Slavko in celebration of the Feast Day of the Conversion of Saint Paul and the Feast of Holy Father Gregory of Nyssa. After the homily, we had a lively discussion and enjoyed coffee together in the church basement, all before concluding with the Divine Liturgy.
This gathering, held on the 4th Saturday of each month, continues to be a special time for men of faith to come together. We look forward to our next meeting on February 22, if all goes according to plan, and we hope to see even more of you there as we continue to build our community in faith and brotherhood.
Blessings to all!
Fr. Slavko
The Feast of Theophany: A Sacred Tradition and Spiritual Renewal for Ukrainian Families in Canada
The Feast of Theophany, celebrated on January 6th (or January 19th according to the Julian calendar), is one of the most significant occasions in the Christian liturgical calendar. It commemorates the Baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River, an event marking the revelation of the Holy Trinity: God the Father’s voice from heaven, the Son in the waters, and the Holy Spirit descending as a dove. For Eastern Christians, especially Ukrainians, Theophany holds deep theological and cultural significance—one that continues to resonate through generations of Ukrainian families in Canada.
The celebration of Theophany is marked by many cherished traditions, one of the most important being the Blessing of the Water, which symbolizes the purification of creation and the sanctification of the faithful. However, this sacred event also intertwines with family customs that have been passed down for generations. For Ukrainian families in Canada, particularly those with Orthodox or Greek Catholic roots, Theophany remains an essential part of their spiritual and cultural heritage—a practice that binds the past with the present and carries a deep sense of community, joy, and renewal.
Schedry Vechir: The Eve of Theophany
In Ukraine, the Eve of Theophany is known as Schedry Vechir, which translates to “Generous Evening” or “Bountiful Evening.” It has earned the nickname “Small Christmas” due to its festive atmosphere, echoing the spirit of Christmas Eve. For Ukrainian families, Schedry Vechir is a time to gather with loved ones for a special meal that includes twelve meatless dishes, symbolizing the twelve Apostles or the twelve months of the year. The dishes are prepared from humble, natural ingredients such as grains, vegetables, and honey, embodying the spirit of fasting and anticipation.
On this evening, the tradition of blessing the water during the Vespers service is deeply significant. This blessed water is used to sanctify the meal, the home, and the faithful. It represents spiritual renewal and purification, bringing God’s grace into the family’s life for the year ahead. Straw crosses are often placed on the meal’s dishes, representing Christ’s baptism in the Jordan River, symbolizing His redemptive mission.
Caroling, known as shchedrivky, fills the evening with joy, as families come together in celebration not only of Christ’s baptism but also of the hope for divine blessings in the coming year.
The Importance of Blessing the Water
The Blessing of the Water on the Eve of Theophany holds rich theological and liturgical meaning. For Eastern Orthodox and Greek Catholic Christians, it is an act of spiritual renewal. By blessing the water, the Church symbolically prepares the faithful to receive Christ’s blessing and grace, just as the waters of the Jordan River were sanctified by Christ’s baptism. Water, in Christian theology, represents purification, life, and regeneration. The blessing of the water signifies the sanctification of the world and the renewal of creation through Christ’s baptism.
Theologically, this water also serves as a means of grace and a reminder of the faithful’s own baptism. It is often taken home by the faithful and used throughout the year to bring blessings and protection to their families.
Ukrainian Families in Canada: Preserving Tradition Across Generations
For over four or five generations, Ukrainian descendants in Canada have preserved these sacred traditions, adapting them to their new home while holding onto their cultural and spiritual roots. In Canada, particularly within Ukrainian-Canadian communities, the Feast of Theophany remains an important celebration. These families continue to practice the Blessing of the Water and partake in Schedry Vechir meals, despite being far from their ancestral homeland.
For many Ukrainian-Canadians, this spiritual tradition is vital to maintaining their cultural identity and connecting with their faith. The passing down of these customs through families and communities helps preserve the essence of Ukrainian Orthodox and Greek Catholic practices, fostering a strong sense of belonging and unity. For the older generations, Theophany is a deeply personal reminder of the values and rituals that shaped their upbringing in Ukraine, while for the younger generations, it provides an opportunity to learn, celebrate, and reconnect with their roots.
However, for newer generations of Ukrainian-Canadians—many of whom may not have grown up with these practices—the traditions of Theophany can sometimes feel distant. The significance of Schedry Vechir, the Blessing of the Water, and other sacred customs may be lost or overlooked in the hustle and bustle of modern life. This is why it is crucial for families to continue sharing the history, the meaning, and the joy of these traditions with the younger generation.
Passing the Torch to New Generations
The new generation of Ukrainian-Canadians—those born or raised outside of Ukraine—may not fully grasp the theological importance of Theophany or the rich symbolism of its traditions. Some may not have experienced the Blessing of the Water or participated in Schedry Vechir meals. This generational shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Ukrainian-Canadian families to renew their commitment to passing on these sacred practices.
It is essential for families and communities to nurture an understanding of the deeper meaning of Theophany—especially for the younger generation. Parents, grandparents, and church leaders have a pivotal role in teaching the significance of these traditions, explaining the symbolic role of water, the importance of baptism, and the manifestation of the Holy Trinity. In this way, the Feast of Theophany can continue to serve as a profound moment of spiritual renewal, not only for individuals but for the entire family and community.
Theological Significance for Both Orthodox and Greek Catholics
For both Orthodox and Greek Catholic Christians, the Feast of Theophany is a celebration of God’s presence in the world through Christ’s baptism. It is a feast that unites believers in the shared understanding of spiritual renewal through baptism and sanctification. In Canada, Ukrainian Orthodox and Greek Catholic communities observe the Blessing of the Water as an essential part of their faith, linking them to the larger tradition of Eastern Christianity.
The continued practice of these traditions among Ukrainian-Canadians—whether through family meals, church services, or the Blessing of the Water—reminds all generations that the work of God is ongoing, sanctifying creation and offering purification and renewal to those who seek it. By participating in these traditions, both the older and newer generations can experience the grace of God in their daily lives and pass on the faith to future generations.
Conclusion: A Bridge Between Generations and Cultures
As Ukrainian-Canadian families continue to celebrate Theophany with joy and reverence, they weave together the threads of faith, culture, and community. Whether they are gathering around a table with twelve meatless dishes on Schedry Vechir, sharing in the Blessing of the Water, or participating in the outdoor Blessing of the Waters, the spiritual practices of Theophany provide an opportunity for deep reflection and renewal.
For the new generation of Ukrainian-Canadians, who may not have practiced these traditions, it is important to remember that these customs are not just historical relics but living expressions of faith. Through education, practice, and shared experiences, these sacred traditions can continue to thrive, ensuring that the spiritual legacy of Theophany remains alive for generations to come.
The Feast of Theophany is not only a reminder of the purification and sanctification that Christ offers but also a celebration of the community and shared joy that binds all believers together. As Ukrainian-Canadians honor this tradition, they are not only reconnecting with their cultural roots but also passing on a rich, living faith that will continue to bring blessings to their families and communities.
By Fr. Slavko
Spilna Koliada 2024 at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church
On the morning of December 29, 2024, St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church in Edmonton was filled with festive joy and the beautiful sounds of Ukrainian Christmas music during our Spilna Koliada 2024 event. This heartwarming celebration followed the 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy and brought together the community for a special Christmas concert.
We were thrilled to welcome Bozhi Dity, the Saint Nicholas Church Choir, and the Feyeria Bandura Group as our esteemed performers. Their exceptional music created a truly unforgettable experience for all who attended.
Bozhi Dity, in addition to their presence, honored the tradition of Ukrainian New Year’s Day by performing the traditional wheat sowing ceremony.
This beautiful custom is believed to bring prosperity for the coming year, and as the children scattered wheat, they wished everyone a fruitful and abundant year ahead. Although they did not perform carols, their participation added a meaningful and symbolic touch to the celebration.
The Saint Nicholas Church Choir
and Feyeria Bandura Group
took the stage, filling the church with the stunning melodies of Ukrainian Christmas carols. These carols, known as “Koliadky,” are an important part of Ukrainian holiday traditions. Rooted in both the Christian and folk heritage, Koliadky are sung to celebrate the birth of Christ and to bring blessings of health, happiness, and prosperity for the new year. Children and adults alike take part in singing these carols, spreading joy and goodwill as they visit homes during the holiday season. The practice of going from house to house, especially on New Year’s Day, is a cherished tradition in Ukraine, where carolers (often in costume) offer songs and blessings in exchange for small gifts or treats, helping to ensure a good harvest and abundant blessings for the coming year.
We are incredibly grateful to all the performers for sharing their time and talent with us. The music and traditions that filled St. Nicholas Church on this festive morning truly made the season come alive, and we thank them for helping us celebrate this special occasion.
As we reflect on the joy of Christmas and look forward to the blessings of the new year, the parishioners of St. Nicholas Church would like to extend our warmest wishes to everyone: Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2025! May this season bring you peace, joy, and prosperity.
We look forward to continuing our tradition of hosting events that celebrate Ukrainian culture and heritage. Stay tuned for more updates on future performances and community gatherings at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church!
Thank you for being part of this wonderful celebration. We hope to see you at our upcoming events!
On the evening of November 2, St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Edmonton was filled with the sounds of Ukrainian music as the beloved bandura group Feyeria celebrated its first anniversary. This special concert marked a year of the group’s dedication to preserving and sharing Ukrainian culture through music, making it a memorable event for the community. The concert was attended by a diverse audience, all eager to experience the beauty of Ukrainian folk songs, choral harmonies, and instrumental masterpieces.
Adding to the significance of the evening, Bishop David Motiuk and Danyleiko Oleksandr, the Consul General of Ukraine in Edmonton, joined as honored guests. The audience was also graced by the presence of Dr. Andrii Horniatkevych, the talented vocal ensemble ‘Dzerelo,’ and the mandolin group ‘St. Nick’s Pics,’ all of whom contributed to the evening’s vibrant celebration of Ukrainian culture.
Feyeria is Edmonton’s only bandura ensemble, committed to bringing the traditional sounds of the bandura—a unique, centuries-old Ukrainian string instrument—to the forefront of the city’s cultural scene. The bandura, often referred to as the soul of Ukrainian music, produces a rich, resonant sound that blends beautifully with choir singing. Over the past year, Feyeria has become a treasured part of Edmonton’s Ukrainian community, bringing to life a repertoire that spans traditional folk tunes, Christmas carols, and complex instrumental arrangements.
Every note played that night was a tribute to Ukrainian heritage, with each song telling a story of hope, resilience, and cultural pride. Feyeria’s repertoire was carefully selected to highlight the diversity of Ukrainian musical traditions. From lively folk melodies that sparked joy to soulful carols that evoked a sense of peace and contemplation, the concert offered something for everyone. The music transported the audience on a journey through Ukraine’s landscapes, from its bustling cities to its tranquil countryside, and reminded everyone of the richness of Ukrainian culture.
One of the highlights of the evening was the sheer variety of musical arrangements. Feyeria skillfully combined bandura music with vocal harmonies and other traditional instruments, adding layers of depth and vibrancy to their performance. The audience was captivated by the interplay of sounds, which offered a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural essence of Ukraine. For many in attendance, especially those with Ukrainian roots, the concert was a deeply moving experience that stirred a sense of nostalgia and connection to their heritage.
The concert was open to the public with free admission, inviting everyone to experience the beauty of Ukrainian music. Although the concert was free, attendees were encouraged to contribute donations to support Feyeria’s mission. After the concert, the evening continued with a silent auction, where guests had the chance to bid on various items. All proceeds from the auction will go toward purchasing new banduras, allowing Feyeria to expand their group and continue growing this beautiful art form. The silent auction was a success, with generous contributions that will help Feyeria in its quest to preserve and celebrate Ukrainian music in Edmonton.
The presence of Bishop David Motiuk and Consul General Danyleiko Oleksandr underscored the importance of the event. Their support highlighted the role of cultural events like this in uniting the community, particularly at a time when many are looking to reconnect with their roots. Bishop David expressed his admiration for the group’s dedication, noting how their music serves as a bridge between generations and as a reminder of Ukraine’s rich cultural legacy.
For St. Nicholas Catholic Church, hosting this concert was not only a celebration of music but also an opportunity to foster a sense of community and cultural pride. The church has long been a gathering place for Edmonton’s Ukrainian community, and events like Feyeria’s concert reflect the church’s commitment to preserving and nurturing Ukrainian traditions. By bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds, the church continues to be a pillar of support for cultural expression and heritage.
The concert was not just an evening of entertainment; it was a powerful reminder of the enduring strength and beauty of Ukrainian culture. As Edmonton’s only bandura ensemble, Feyeria stands at the forefront of a movement to keep Ukrainian music alive for future generations. Their passion and dedication are evident in every performance, and their music serves as a testament to the resilience of Ukrainian heritage.
We invite everyone to stay connected with St. Nicholas Catholic Church for future events and performances that celebrate the richness of Ukrainian culture. Feyeria’s concert may have ended, but their music continues to resonate, inspiring hope, unity, and pride in the Ukrainian community and beyond.
For those who could not attend, keep an eye out for more opportunities to experience the magic of Feyeria’s performances and the timeless beauty of the bandura. Together, let’s support and celebrate Edmonton’s growing Bandura community and the vibrant traditions they bring to life.
Stay tuned for more updates on our website!
Glory be to Jesus Christ! Glory be forever!
Dear Friends,
As a teenager, I spent the best years of my life in Minor Seminary in Rome. Not everyone could say the same. Different people, different feelings and opinions, but an adventurous experience and a lot of memories.
One thing that we used to do was to do special kinds of thanksgiving prayers like Moleben or Akafist or Rosary. Last day of May we would gather outside and recite the rosary and its mysteries in different languages. We had seminarians from different parts of the world. It was a multilingual experience. One thing was uniting us all; it was our Ukrainian heritage. We were all Ukrainian descendants some first or second but most of us were third-generation Ukrainians born out of Ukraine.
The end of May was also coming close to the end of the school year. The religion exam was done on that date. That afternoon would also be award night for best marks in religion.
We had a whole month to prepare for that event and each of us had to write an anonymous letter to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The letter, you would write was a form of prayer for your loved family members or your friends but especially for yourself. It was like a wish list that kids write at Christmas time. The only difference was that we were to write letters to our Heavenly Mother and ask not for material goods but something that others or you could benefit spiritually or emotionally. We were to write something like for the health of someone, or to finish your school successfully or to be a good example, or ask that God through Her intercession grant you wisdom or the right mind to always make the right decisions in life, and so on. Sky was the limit. It was a secret that only you would know about it.
That letter was to be written anonymously not mentioning anywhere your name. You could only write on the end “your son” or “your daughter” if the girl would write. Just in case someone involuntary opened your letter and read it, would not know who wrote that prayer. After writing your emotions in the form of a prayer you would seal it and write on an envelope an imaginary address or draw flowers or glue stickers to decorate it. Still not writing anywhere your name or returning address. That letter was not coming back to you. Then you would bring the decorated letter to the church and place it in the basket in the front of the icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary and leave it there. You would continue to pray for those intentions before and after the event.
On the day of the event, during the morning Divine Liturgy, all letters that were brought to the church were placed on the altar, and the intention of that Liturgy was the general intention for your written prayer sealed in the envelope.
At the end of the ceremony, a procession was done outdoors, and all letters were burned. All of us saw letters burning in the fire and we saw smoke arising from there.
That was the first time that I had seen physically my prayer reaching the sky. I believed that it went to heaven.
Still remember today things that I asked Blessed Mother to intercede on my behalf. Most of the things are fulfilled. Some answers took days, others weeks, and still others months or years. But I was granted what I asked for. You have to be careful what you are asking for. Are those things profitable for my future? Things you ask for, you have to believe in and pray for by being persistent and patient.
Becoming a priest I am trying to continue that tradition within my parishes. We try to write letters to Mary twice a year. In the East month of October is dedicated to the Holy Theotokos. We dedicate May and October to our Heavenly Mother and pray to Her that She may intercede on our behalf.
I also want to invite you to write an anonymous letter to Mary bring it to Saint Nicholas Church and place it on the front of the Icon no later than Wednesday, October 30, 2024.
On October 31 at 7 PM, we are having a special service and we are going to burn all letters that were brought before that event.
May the Holy Theotokos always protect us.
Fr. Slavko
