2018 EASTER PASTORAL LETTER OF THE UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC BISHOPS OF CANADA
To the Very Reverend Clergy, Monastics,
Religious Sisters and Brothers,
Seminarians, and Laity of the Ukrainian Catholic Church in Canada:
Christ is Risen! Indeed, He is Risen!
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Though You went down to the grave, O immortal Lord, You destroyed the power of Hades and rose victorious, Christ our God. You said “Rejoice” to the myrrh-bearing women, gave peace to Your apostles, and offered resurrection to the fallen. (Easter Sunday Kondak)
Every human person longs for eternal life. Everything about our daily lives suggests that each of us was created for much more than what we encounter in our routine—and at times, not-so-routine—lives. Even after receiving so much, we still possess an infinite desire for our infinite God. “My soul is consumed with longing for your ordinances at all times” (Ps. 119:20). When we pause to reflect on this yearning in our hearts, we find a common, natural mystery uniting all of humanity. Indeed, salvation is both personal and communal—for each of us and for all of us.
At the same time, there are forces that do not unite humanity. We witness both subtle and bold acts of greed and coercion, as well as selfish hearts harboring unspeakable thoughts that lead to horrible results all around us. The danger to human dignity posed by assisted suicide laws in Canada and the ongoing war in Ukraine are but two examples. Such division and destruction lead us to ask: “How can people give in to such temptation and have so little regard for human dignity?”
Jesus Christ gives meaning to all things. As missionary disciples, we are challenged to share this meaning with others as individuals, as families, and as parishes. By recognizing our own sinfulness and God’s forgiveness, we must testify that there is more to life than the earthly existence of suffering. When people wish to take their own lives due to depression or chronic illness, we must show them hope. We are called to be signs of human dignity, accompanying others in their struggles to be better people and to be more like Christ—offering compassion and mercy in our common pursuit of the Truth, the person of Jesus.
The confusion of morals and values in society creates a turbulent sea, particularly when considering issues of gender identity, suicide versus palliative care, and the pressure to agree to abortion when applying for federal summer employment assistance. What is needed is a harbor of trust, humility, patience, and love—one that should be found within our vibrant parishes. We must offer others care for the body and soul according to Gospel values. This is the fruit of internalizing Scripture, partaking in the Sacraments of the Church, engaging in communal prayer, and performing acts of service and charitable works.
Thus, finding meaning in Christ is what gives purpose to life. He is present to us in all we experience. He is with us! We are invited to encounter Christ and then become signs of hope to others so that, together, we may proclaim: “Christ is risen from the dead, trampling death by death, and to those in the tombs giving life!”
May Christ, who dwells in our hearts, in our families, and in our vibrant parishes, give life to all. On this Feast of the Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ, we pray that God’s love fills your heart and, through you, the hearts of all.
Christ is Risen! Indeed, He is Risen!
Sincerely Yours in Christ,
+ Lawrence Huculak, OSBM Metropolitan-Archbishop of Winnipeg
+ David Motiuk Eparchial Bishop of Edmonton
+ Stephen Chmilar Eparchial Bishop of Toronto & Eastern Canada
+ Ken Nowakowski Eparchial Bishop of New Westminster
+ Bryan Bayda, CSsR Eparchial Bishop of Saskatoon
+ Michael Wiwchar, C.Ss.R. Bishop Emeritus of Saskatoon
+ Severian Yakymyshyn, OSBM Bishop Emeritus of New Westminster
