In late June 2025, the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGCC) marked a significant moment in its history. Bishops, clergy, and faithful from around the world gathered in Rome to celebrate the Jubilee Pilgrimage of Hope and the opening of the 2025 Synod of Bishops.

A Historic Pilgrimage (June 28–29, 2025)

On June 28, over 7,000 pilgrims passed through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica, a sacred act granting a plenary indulgence, as announced by His Beatitude Sviatoslav Shevchuk. Following the procession, Patriarch Sviatoslav presided at a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy in the Byzantine rite. He reflected on shared Eucharistic unity, noting:

“We experience conciliarity in the context of the Eucharist … through the Holy Spirit.”

Later that evening, pilgrims gathered in greeting. Pope Leo XIV offered a special welcome, emphasizing his solidarity with Ukraine’s suffering. In response, Patriarch Sviatoslav remarked:

“Through his words, Pope Leo has given us visibility … we were, we are, and we will be.”

The next morning, a second Hierarchical Liturgy was held at St. Sophia Cathedral in Rome, followed by a concert by the National Academic Choir “Voice of Ukraine.”

Launching the 2025 Synod (June 29–July 10)

On the feast of Saints Peter and Paul, June 29, the Synod of Bishops officially began with Mass presided over by Pope Leo XIV, a historic first. In the evening, bishops took the synodal oath and formed the official gathering at St. Josaphat College.

The Synod’s central theme is pastoral care for families during wartime. Patriarch Sviatoslav emphasized that such care must be relational, not just programs, but genuine accompaniment to families scarred by conflict.

Key statistics were also noted: between 6 and 9 million Ukrainian refugees are now seeking asylum worldwide-a call to renewed pastoral urgency.

Relics of St. Volodymyr Brought to Rome: A Historic Moment

On July 6, 2025, a moment of profound historical and spiritual significance took place at the Pro-Cathedral of St. Sophia in Rome. His Beatitude Sviatoslav, Father and Head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, solemnly brought the relics of St. Volodymyr, Equal to the Apostles, into the cathedral, accompanied by the bishops of the Synod.

“Today, during the Synod of Bishops of our Church in Rome, we solemnly brought into this holy temple the relics of the Equal-to-the-Apostles, Great Prince Volodymyr. The Volodymyr who was once taken from Ukraine by Moscow occupiers is returning today to his Church,” said His Beatitude.

This act carried deep symbolic weight. The relics’ arrival at St. Sophia – built by Patriarch Josyf Slipyj – signified a homecoming of faith and a tangible link to the legacy of Kyivan Christianity. His Beatitude called it a living witness that “the Church born in the baptismal waters of the Dnipro… is alive,” reaffirming the Church’s endurance, unity, and connection with its apostolic roots.

The relics were formally received earlier this year, on January 23, from Bishop Oleksandr Drabynko of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine. Their arrival during the Synod underscored the unity of Ukrainian Christian heritage and the strength of communion with the Apostolic See.

Unity & Hope: Gospel Message in Action

Patriarch Sviatoslav and Pope Leo stressed the importance of shared faith and hope. Pope Leo declared,

“Let us persist in a shared faith and hope,”

while speaking compassionately of Ukraine’s pain, praying for captives and victims and for peace to return swiftly.

Bishop David’s Presence

Our Bishop David was present, actively participating in both the pilgrimage and Synod. He joined in prayer at St. Peter’s and with Pope Leo, reinforcing the UGCC’s solidarity with Ukraine. His contributions included heartfelt prayers for Ukraine’s protection and global peace – an embodiment of pastoral unity and support.

Reflections & Takeaways

• A Global Church in Communion with Rome: The shared liturgies and the Pope’s participation highlight the deep communion between Eastern and Western traditions.
• Faith in Action: The Synod’s emphasis on families affected by war reflects a living concern rooted in Gospel compassion.
• Pilgrimage of Hope: Passing through the Holy Door during this Jubilee year symbolizes renewal, healing, and unity across continents.

The Jubilee Pilgrimage and Synod 2025 were more than ceremonial gatherings-they were a powerful witness of unity, resilience, and pastoral care in times of turmoil. As recorded in Scripture, the Church is guided “not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit” (Zechariah 4:6).

For the faithful of the Edmonton Eparchy, Bishop Motiuk’s participation demonstrates our solidarity with the global UGCC and the spiritual heart, rooted in prayer and hope during these critical times.