80 Years of Grace and Gratitude: The Ruthenian Greek Catholic Parish of St. Anthony of Kyiv

On July 19, 2025, faithful from across the Redwater District gathered to mark a milestone in the life of the Ruthenian Greek Catholic Parish of St. Anthony of Kyiv in New Pine Creek. The parish, rooted in deep tradition and enduring faith, joyfully celebrated the 80th anniversary of its first Divine Liturgy, held within its new church building in 1945.

A History Anchored in Faith

The seeds of this parish were planted in 1932, when the first Divine Liturgy was celebrated in the home of Mykhaylo Nimko by Fr. Theodor Dobo, OSBM. That same year, Anton Nalesnik proposed the establishment of a cemetery and church. With the blessing of Bishop Basil Ladyka, the Ruthenian Greek Catholic Parish of St. Anthony was born, named in honour of St. Anthony of the Caves (Kyiv).

Following years of planning and preparation, land title was officially granted in 1940, and the church was completed in 1945 on a parcel donated by Anton and Frank Nalesnyk. The first Liturgy was celebrated on July 10, 1945. Built by the hands of devoted founders like Mykhaylo Nimko, Oleksa Podyo, and Hryhoriy Beresten, the church remains a beacon of Byzantine Catholic tradition in Alberta.

A Day of Celebration and Remembrance

To honour this significant anniversary, a festive and prayerful program was organized by the parish committee. A large tent adjacent to the church helped accommodate over 100 faithful who came to share in the day’s blessings. The Divine Liturgy began at 11:00 AM and was celebrated by His Grace Bishop David Motiuk, along with Fr. Mark Sych, Fr. Slavko Dumec, and Fr. Jhack Diaz.

During the Liturgy, Bishop David offered a special blessing to Nick and Violet Bandola, a couple celebrating 65 years of marriage, a moving tribute to both faith and family.

Following the Liturgy, all attendees gathered outside the church for a commemorative group photograph, as requested by Bishop David. A Panakhyda was then offered for the departed parishioners, and grave blessings were carried out by Bishop David and Fr. Mark Sych at the parish cemetery.

Fellowship and Legacy

The day continued with a communal lunch at the New Pine Creek Community Hall, where Bishop David extended a blessing over the meal. Attendees were invited to share in the memories of decades past through photographs and stories of parish life since 1945. Special guest introductions were made, including clergy, eparchial and local government representatives, and family members of the founding families.

This 80th anniversary was not simply a look back at history, but a joyful reaffirmation of the parish’s mission: to live the Gospel, cherish tradition, and nurture community. The presence of multiple generations, from grandchildren of founders to new parishioners, was a testament to the living legacy of the Ruthenian Greek Catholic Church in rural Alberta.

Looking to the Future

As the faithful of St. Anthony of Kyiv continue their journey, they do so strengthened by the example of those who came before them. Their 80th anniversary celebration serves as a reminder that the Church is not just a building but a spiritual home, a place where Christ is glorified, families are nourished, and faith is passed on.

Mnohaya Lita to St. Anthony Parish – may the Lord continue to bless this community with many more years of grace, unity, and faithful service.