UNITY IN ACTION
October 11, 2024
We were informed, that our Metropolitan Archbishop Lawrence was admitted to hospital on October 8, 2024 having been diagnosed with an aggressive form of COVID. His condition has deteriorated and he is presently in the ICU.
Bishop Andriy was able to administer Sacrament of the Anointing of Sick and to give His Grace Holy Communion.
Please pray, that Christ - our Divine Physician - would grant Metropolitan Lawrence a full recovery!
On Friday, October 11, a Divine Liturgy for the health and quick recovery of Metropolitan Lawrence Huculak was celebrated at the Ukrainian Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral of Sts. Volodymyr and Olha in Winnipeg. The Liturgy, which took place at 6 PM, was led by Bishop Andriy Rabiy, the auxiliary bishop of the Archeparchy of Winnipeg and Bishop Brian Bayda of Toronto Eparchy, alongside numerous clergy from the Archeparchy of Winnipeg.
The Ukrainian Catholic community came together both clergy and faithful, who offered their prayers for the ailing Metropolitan Lawrence. The congregation filled the beautiful cathedral on McGregor Street, uniting in a shared hope for healing.
In his words, Bishop Andriy expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and care shown toward Metropolitan Lawrence. "We are very thankful for the excellent medical care Metropolitan Lawrence is receiving and for the prayers and support from our faithful, clergy, and religious," said Bishop Andriy. His words reflected both a deep sense of appreciation in the doctors and nurses and confidence in the power of prayer. The bishop's message emphasized the community's trust in God's mercy and healing.
The faithful were reminded of the Church's deep tradition of intercession, asking for the prayers of saints and blessed figures known for their healing. Among these intercessors are Blessed Nykyta Budka, the first Ukrainian Catholic bishop in Canada, Blessed Vasyl Velychkovsky, a martyr who courageously endured great suffering for the faith and Blessed Josaphata Hordashevska, the first member and co-foundress of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate. The Ukrainian Catholic tradition emphasizes the role of saints and blessed in assisting the faithful, especially during moments of trial and illness.
This communal prayer for health and recovery serves as a testament to the strength of faith within the Ukrainian Catholic community. It highlights the importance of collective spiritual support during times of trial and reflects the enduring bond between the clergy and laity in their devotion to their spiritual leaders.
