The annual clergy retreat took place this year from September 30 to October 4. It was a much-anticipated event, held on serene Hecla Island and led by the retreat master, Fr. John Sianchuk, CSsR. Over the course of four days, twenty-one archeparchial priests—including Metropolitan Lawrence Huculak and Bishop Andriy Rabiy—along with three religious brothers and one seminarian, gathered in an atmosphere of deep reflection, prayer, and brotherhood.
Hecla Island, located in the heart of Lake Winnipeg, is known for its natural beauty and tranquility. The island’s quiet charm and scenic environment greatly contributed to the spiritual atmosphere of the retreat.
Fr. John Sianchuk, a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (Redemptorist Fathers), led the sessions with a profound sense of spirituality, wisdom, and pastoral sensitivity. His presentations were both contemplative and instructive, guiding the participants through spiritual reflections on the Scriptures and the teachings of the Fathers of the Church.
Throughout the retreat, Fr. Sianchuk drew upon the rich spiritual traditions of the Eastern Church, weaving together reflections on the Gospels with insights from Church Fathers, saints, mystics, and personal experience. His teachings encouraged the clergy to consider their own spiritual well-being and relationship with God, reminding them that their ability to minister effectively depends on their personal prayer life. He emphasized the importance of a deep connection with Christ in their vocation, urging them to find strength and renewal in the Sacraments.
The retreat schedule was carefully designed to foster an environment of prayer and reflection, balancing communal worship with personal time for contemplation. Each day began with the First Hour, followed by breakfast and the first session with the retreat master. The Divine Liturgy was celebrated daily, providing the clergy with essential spiritual nourishment.
Vespers and evening reflections concluded each day, offering participants an opportunity to meditate on the day’s teachings and their own spiritual journeys. The Moleben to the Most Holy Mother of God and the Moleben to Blessed Nykyta Budka were integral parts of the evening prayer life.
While the retreat was primarily a time for individual reflection, it also provided a valuable opportunity for the clergy to gather as a community. Meals were shared in a communal setting, creating a relaxed atmosphere where participants could share stories, experiences, and spiritual insights.
Many of the priests expressed how deeply they valued the sense of brotherhood the retreat fostered. In this supportive setting, they were able to discuss both the joys and the struggles of their ministry with their fellow clergy.
As the retreat drew to a close on October 4, the participants returned to their parishes renewed in spirit and faith. The time spent in prayer, the guidance of Fr. John Sianchuk, and the fellowship they shared equipped the clergy to return to their ministry with a reclaimed sense of purpose and energy.
This year’s retreat was not only a time of spiritual growth but also a testament to the enduring bond of brotherhood among the clergy. As they left Hecla Island for their respective parishes, they carried with them the lessons, prayers, and mutual support that will sustain them in their ministry ahead.
Department of Communications of the Archeparchy of Winnipeg
