On June 21–22, 2025, the faithful of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Edmonton gathered in Mundare, Alberta, for the annual Saints Peter & Paul Vidpust pilgrimage – a cherished tradition of faith, prayer, and spiritual renewal. This year’s pilgrimage held special significance as part of the Jubilee Year of Pilgrimage announced by Pope Francis and embraced by our Eparchy.

Day 1: Pilgrimage Walk of Families and Young Adults

The celebration began on Saturday, June 21, with a walking pilgrimage of families and young adults from various parishes. The group gathered at the roadside Marian shrine near Mundare, where they prayed a Moleben to the Mother of God and heard an inspiring homily from Fr. John Sembrat, OSBM.

Despite the wind, the pilgrims joyfully walked approximately 10 km to Sts. Peter & Paul Church in Mundare, praying the Rosary in both English and Ukrainian. Along the way, Fr. Iryney Valyavka, OSBM, heard confessions, and the group engaged in spiritual conversations.

Upon arrival, they were welcomed at the Basilian Fathers Museum, where snacks and fellowship preceded Great Vespers with Bishop David and clergy. Deacon Cyril Kennedy offered a final homily for the evening, closing a beautiful day of prayer and community.

Day 2: Divine Liturgy, Blessings, and Jubilee Grace

The main pilgrimage celebration took place on Sunday, June 22, with a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy celebrated by Bishop David Motiuk at the Grotto of the Most Holy Mother of God in Mundare. He was joined by clergy and deacons from across the Eparchy.

The liturgy was beautifully led by the choir of St. Basil’s Parish in Edmonton, filling the sacred space with music that uplifted and united all present.

Following the Divine Liturgy, the faithful received blessings for their sacred items, including icons, crosses, and prayer books. The community then gathered for a festive meal at the Mundare Recreation Centre, where joy and fellowship continued.

As part of the Jubilee Year, pilgrims who met the spiritual conditions received a Plenary Indulgence, a powerful grace encouraging deeper conversion and gratitude for the gift of pilgrimage.

Honouring Our Tradition at the Saints Peter & Paul Grotto

The Vidpust continues to be a vital expression of our Byzantine spiritual heritage in Alberta. Located near the historic Saints Peter & Paul Grotto, the pilgrimage not only recalls our ancestors’ faith but also strengthens our connection with Christ, the Mother of God, and one another.

We thank everyone who participated in this year’s Vidpust and helped make it a memorable expression of faith, unity, and tradition.

Let us continue to walk together in faith and hope — and mark your calendars to join us next year!