GIMLI, MB – A few hundred faithful from the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Winnipeg gathered at Ukrainian Park on Saturday, September 6, for a special celebration of the Jubilee Year, marking the occasion with a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, family activities, and fellowship.
The day-long event saw families from across the province converge on the historic park north of Gimli. The afternoon began with games and activities for children before attendees gathered for the Rosary prayer and Divine Liturgy.
The beautiful Hutsul-style St. Volodymyr Chapel, built in 1962, was filled to capacity as Metropolitan Lawrence Huculak, OSBM, led the Divine Liturgy. He was joined by Archbishop-emeritus Stefan Soroka, Bishop Andriy Rabiy, and numerous clergy. For many in attendance, the service offered a chance to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation and the plenary indulgence associated with the Jubilee Year, a period dedicated to faith renewal that occurs every 25 years.
In his homily, Metropolitan Huculak drew a powerful parallel between the biblical account of the Transfiguration and the purpose of Ukrainian Park as a place of spiritual retreat.
“People often come to this Park tired and even burnt out, yearning for rest and the peace that this Park offers,” said Metropolitan Huculak. He stressed that the park’s role extends beyond recreation. “The Archeparchy is not in the camping business… Our primary purpose is the salvation of souls, and that includes everyone who makes use of this facility.”
He encouraged attendees to use the park as a place to step away from daily routines and listen for God’s voice, reflecting the Jubilee theme of “Pilgrims of Hope.” Metropolitan Lawrence concluded by expressing deep gratitude for the staff, organizations, and volunteers whose tireless work keeps the park running.
Following the Divine Liturgy, the celebration continued with a fellowship supper of traditional Ukrainian food in the park’s dining hall. The evening concluded with a lively zabava (social gathering and dancing) and a bonfire with sing-alongs.
The event highlighted the park’s enduring legacy as a spiritual and cultural hub for the community. Ukrainian Park was established after the Archeparchy purchased the 100-acre property in 1953, with the formal opening taking place on July 4, 1954 by Archbishop Vasyl Ladyka and Bishop Maxim Hermaniuk. For over 70 years, it has served as a beloved site for summer camps, family gatherings, and religious services, fulfilling the vision of its founders as a center of faith, youth enrichment, and Ukrainian heritage.
