VISIT OF HOPE

March 3, 2025

His Beatitude Sviatoslav Shevchuk, made pastoral visit to Winnipeg from March 1 to 3, 2025. This visit was part of a broader journey to Canada, where he participated in the meetings of Permanent Synod of the UGCC, and engaged with Ukrainian communities across the country.

During his stay in Winnipeg, he spent time with our own Metropolitan Lawrence Huculak, who is successfully recovering from COVID-19. Additionally, Patriarch Sviatoslav met with Bishop Emeritus Peter Stasiuk, who had been diagnosed with treatable but serious illness. Bishop Stasiuk, served as the Eparchial Bishop of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Saints Peter and Paul of Melbourne until his retirement in 2020.

On Sunday, March 2, Patriarch Sviatoslav celebrated the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral of Sts. Volodymyr and Olha. The cathedral was filled to capacity, reflecting the deep faith and unity of the Ukrainian Catholic community in Winnipeg. During the service, the Patriarch delivered a message of hope. Following the Liturgy, he personally blessed each in attendance, offering individual prayers and words of encouragement.

In an effort to engage more broadly with the clergy, Patriarch Sviatoslav participated in a Zoom meeting with the clergy of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Winnipeg. This virtual gathering allowed for open dialogue, where the Patriarch listened to the experiences and concerns of the clergy, providing guidance and support. The conversation also focused on pastoral strategies to address the needs of the faithful, especially in light of continuous russian aggression in Ukraine.

On the last day, Patriarch Sviatoslav visited the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) in Winnipeg, to learn about their initiatives, particularly those aimed at assisting displaced people by war from Ukraine. The UCC has been instrumental in supporting Ukrainian immigrants, providing resources and programs to help them integrate into Canadian society while preserving their cultural heritage. The Patriarch expressed gratitude for their efforts and encouraged continued collaboration between the Church and community organizations to support those affected by the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Additionally, His Beatitude together with Bishop Andrij Rabij, visited the Blessed Vasyl Velychkovsky Shrine in Winnipeg, a significant spiritual site for Ukrainian Catholics.

Patriarch Sviatoslav's visit to Winnipeg was a source of spiritual rejuvenation and unity for the Ukrainian community.

View More News