The 2024 Synod of Bishops of the UGCC took place at the Marian Spiritual Center "Zarvanytsia"

July 24, 2024

For the first time the Synod of Bishops of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church was at the Marian Spiritual Center "Zarvanytsia". Between July 2 and 12, 2024 bishops from all over the world gathered in Ukraine for a synodal meeting to discuss the urgent pastoral challenges of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church in the present situation caused by the cruel and unjust russian war.

Father and Head of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church His Beatitude Patriarch Svyatoslav said that, this is a very special and symbolic Synod. When a large-scale war began in 2022, we gathered for our Synod in Przemyśl, Poland. Last year we had our Synod in Rome to speak on behalf of Ukraine to the Holy Father and the whole world. This year, the bishops came to Ukraine, to Zarvanytsia. This time main emphasis is on the service of the Church to the people of Ukraine. Therefore, I call this Synod once again the Synod of hope in Ukraine and for Ukraine. For the first time in the history of our Church such a Synod is taking place in Zarvanytsia. We remembered how Zarvanytsia looked in 1988, when the underground Church celebrated the 1000th anniversary of the Baptism of Ukraine. There was nothing here. A forest, a spring and a small run-down church. Today, the majestic National Marian Center stands here. We found the original of the miraculous icon. And for the first time today we have the opportunity to hold the Synod of Bishops in the house of Mary.

The Canadian bishops in the synod highlights the global nature of the UGCC and the interconnectedness of its faithful. Bishop Andriy Rabiy's presence from the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Winnipeg symbolizes the strong ties between the UGCC communities in Canada and Ukraine. His participation is a testament to the collaborative spirit and shared commitment to the Church's mission.

Bishop Rabiy, has been very active in this year Synod of the UGCC. His experience and insights are valuable to the synod's discussions, particularly concerning the pastoral care of the Ukrainians in the diaspora.

During the synod, bishops discussed various topics essential to the Church's growth and the spiritual well-being of its members.

The participation of Canadian bishops like Bishop Rabiy is expected to have a positive impact on the UGCC community in Canada. The insights and decisions from the synod will guide local pastoral activities and initiatives, ensuring they are aligned with the broader objectives of the UGCC. Moreover, it reinforces the sense of unity and shared purpose among Ukrainian Catholics in Canada and their counterparts worldwide.

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