The Royal Society of Arts is based in London and was founded in 1754 to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions in the fields of the arts, manufacturing, and commerce. Previous fellows include Benjamin Franklin, Charles Dickens, Marie Curie and Nelson Mandela. The current patron of the Royal Society of Arts is Queen Elizabeth II and the President is the Princess Royal.

“This is a great honour awarded for Fr. Athanasius recognizing his historical and international scholarship, as well as our Ukrainian Catholic Church worldwide, and, all humanity.” ~Bishop David

These past several years, Rev. Fr. McVay, STB, HED, FRSA has been performing research in Rome on a variety of church topics at my request and at the request of the Ukrainian Catholic Bishops in Canada. For example, he is the author of “God’s Martyr, History’s Witness: Blessed Nykyta Budka, the First Ukrainian Catholic Bishop of Canada” (Edmonton, 2014); an authoritative book in English on the life and contribution of Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky (awaiting publishing); A history of the Ukrainian Catholic Church in Britain (in editing), and the Origins and History of the Ukrainian Catholic Church in Canada (work in progress). 

“Dr. McVay’s sterling record of publications has provided invaluable insights on the history of the Ukrainian Catholic church. He has, in particular, provided original work highlighting the contribution of historical figures including Nykyta Budka, who worked in Canada, and Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky. This work is particularly important in the light of international developments in Ukraine and sheds much light on migrant communities in North America and in the UK. Dr. McVay’s current research has a focus on Ukrainian communities in Great Britain, whose history during the 20th century has yet to be adequately documented. In short, his strong publication record (which includes two books) is significant in terms of historical, ecclesiastical, and ecumenical terms and this distinguished scholar is a credit to the RSA.” ~Dr. Paul Scott, FRSA