The Joyful Ordination of Protodeacon Stefan Tyrawski to the Holy Priesthood

December 16, 2024

The Ukrainian Catholic community gathered in Winnipeg on Saturday, December 7, 2024, for a very special occasion: the ordination of Protodeacon Stefan Tyrawski to the Holy Priesthood. This joyful event took place at the Ukrainian Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral of Sts. Volodymyr and Olha, a suitable place for such a significant occasion in the life of the Ukrainian Church here in Manitoba.

The Hierarchical Divine Liturgy began at noon, with Bishop Andriy Rabiy presiding over it. The cathedral was filled with clergy, family, friends, and faithful parishioners, all gathered to witness this sacred moment. The liturgy was a blend of solemnity and celebration, enriched by the voices of the cathedral choir.

As the liturgy progressed, Archdeacon Fr. Yaroslav Buduykevych led Protodeacon Stefan Tyrawski to the bishop. In a solemn procession, Protodeacon Stefan made three prostrations, each a sign of his humility and desire to serve. Upon reaching the Holy Altar, he kissed its four corners in an act of reverence and dedication.

Kneeling before the bishop, Protodeacon Stefan publicly professed his Creed and took an oath of obedience and fidelity upon the Holy Gospel. These acts signified his complete surrender to God and to the Church and his readiness to embrace the sacred duties of the priesthood.

Bishop Andriy Rabiy then placed his hands upon Protodeacon Stefan's head, invoking the Holy Spirit to descend and make him a worthy priest. This deeply moving moment was accompanied by a special litany for the newly ordained, during which Protodeacon Stefan lay prostrate on the floor of the sanctuary in a cruciform, embodying total submission to the will of God.

Following the invocation of the Holy Spirit, Bishop Andriy presented Protodeacon Stefan with the priestly vestments. As each article of the vestments was bestowed, the bishop proclaimed "Axios!" ("He is worthy!"), to which the entire congregation joyfully responded with resounding voices, "Axios!" Fr. Ihor Shved, pastor of the Sts. Volodymyr and Olha Cathedral, and Fr. Yaroslav Buduykevych assisted the newly ordained priest in donning the vestments, symbolizing his new role as a celebrant of the Holy Mysteries.

Now vested, Fr. Stefan Tyrawski took his place at the right side of the bishop, a position that signifies his readiness to serve as a co-worker in the vineyard of the Lord. The Liturgy continued with Fr. Stefan joining in his first concelebration of the Divine Liturgy as a priest, bringing tears of joy to many in attendance.

In his homily, Bishop Andriy spoke of the sacred responsibility of the priesthood, emphasizing the importance of selfless service, humility, and strong faith. He encouraged Fr. Stefan to be a shepherd who leads his flock with love and dedication, following the example of Christ.

Following the liturgy, a grand reception was held at the Protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary church hall. The guests enjoyed Ukrainian dishes alongside heartfelt fellowship.

Fr. Mark Gnutel served as the Master of Ceremonies for the evening, ensuring a seamless flow of events. He warmly welcomed all in attendance, setting a tone of happiness and joy. Among the speakers, Fr. Vasyl Hoy, who reflected on the priestly vocation, emphasizing the words of Christ from Scripture: "It is I who chose you, not you who chose me." He spoke of the profound mystery of God's call to the priesthood.

Fr. Yaroslav, representing the Gimli and Interlake Pastoral District, extended greetings and heartfelt congratulations to Fr. Stefan, noting the significance of his new ministry for the faithful. Yaroslaw Chubenko brought greetings on behalf of Sts. Volodymyr and Olha Cathedral, expressing the joy and pride of the cathedral community in witnessing one of their own being ordained.

Various organizations and groups also shared their congratulations and best wishes for Fr. Stefan. Representatives from the Ukrainian Catholic Women's League, the Knights of Columbus, and other parish and eparchial organizations offered words of encouragement and support.

Fr. Stefan's daughter Oksana shared stories of his spiritual path, expressing their support and pride.

Fr. Stefan, in his address, thanked God for His abundant blessings and the early childhood dream to be a priest. He expressed gratitude to his family, the bishop, and the entire faith community for their support and prayers. With humility and tears, he shared his aspirations for his priestly ministry, promising to serve with integrity and compassion.

The following day, December 8, 2024, Fr. Stefan celebrated his first Divine Liturgy at St. Nicholas Church. This first liturgy was another deeply moving event, attended by many who had witnessed his ordination.

The ordination of Fr. Stefan Tyrawski stands as a testament to God's vocation and the sign of spiritual life in the Ukrainian Catholic Church.

May God grant Fr. Stefan many blessed years in his priestly ministry. "Mnohaya Lita!"

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