A JOURNEY OF FAITH
December 5, 2024
Rev. Protodeacon Stefan Tyrawski's story is a profound testament to a faith field heart. Born on March 15, 1958, in Poland, Stefan was raised in a devout Ukrainian Catholic family, where faith played an integral role in daily life. His early years were shaped by a rich spiritual and cultural heritage, cultivating in him a deep love for God and the Church.
Early Life and Formation in Poland
Stefan grew up in an environment that valued prayer. Ukrainian Catholic identity resonated deeply in his upbringing in Poland, with local priests such as Fr. Czeslaw Barwicki and Fr. Ivan Jaremin. These mentors ignited in him a desire to dedicate his life to the service of God's people.
Immigration to Canada and New Beginnings
In 1975, Stefan, along with his mother, sister, and brother, immigrated to Winnipeg, Canada, seeking a new life. The transition was a challenging one, but Stefan embraced it with faith and determination. He completed his high school and post-secondary education in Winnipeg while also immersing himself in the life of the local Ukrainian Catholic community.
It was here that his vocation to the diaconate began to take shape. Enrolling in the Archeparchial Diaconate School (1979-1985), Stefan committed himself to spiritual and theological training, preparing for the ministry he would one day embrace wholeheartedly.
Marriage and Family Life
On October 1, 1983, Stefan married Maria, his lifelong partner and source of strength. Their union was a reflection of their shared faith and commitment to God's will. Together, they built a home centered on love and prayer, raising two children, Bohdan and Oksana, who have been a source of great pride and joy.
Ordination and Early Ministry
Stefan's journey into ordained ministry began with his ordination as a sub-deacon by Metropolitan Maxim Hermaniuk, C.Ss.R., on November 8, 1986, and culminated in his diaconate ordination by Bishop Myron Daciuk, OSBM, on December 14, 1986. From that moment, his life became a relentless pursuit of serving God and His people.
For the next thirteen years (1987-1999), Deacon Stefan ministered at Sts. Vladimir & Olga Cathedral in Winnipeg, a vibrant spiritual home where he improved his pastoral skills and developed deep relationships with parishioners. In 1997, he also began serving at Protectress of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Rossdale, later becoming its administrator.
Expanding Ministry Across Manitoba
The early 2000s saw Deacon Stefan's ministry extend to several parishes across Manitoba. His assignments included:
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2002-2005: Churches in Selkirk District, including Holy Eucharist (Selkirk), Blessed Virgin Mary (East Selkirk), and Holy Trinity (Gonor), serving as an administrator for the final two years.
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2005-2010: Descent of the Holy Spirit (Beausejour), St. John's the Theologian (St. Vital), and Sts. Peter & Paul (Thalberg), again as administrator.
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2010-2021: Exaltation of the Holy Cross (Elma) and St. Anne's Church (Winnipeg).
