With immense joy and gratitude to Almighty God, the Eparchy of Edmonton announces the ordination of Deacon Peter Pitchko, who was ordained to the Holy Diaconate by Most Reverend Bishop David on Saturday, October 11, the Feast of St. Philip the Apostle, one of the first Seven Deacons. The sacred ordination took place in the radiant setting of St. Josaphat Cathedral, the spiritual heart of the Eparchy, where clergy, faithful, family, and friends gathered to witness the grace of the Holy Spirit descending upon one called to serve the Church.
As the choir intoned the melodies of the Divine Liturgy, the solemnity of the ordination was profound and deeply moving. Surrounded by Bishop David and the clergy of the Eparchy, Deacon Peter felt immense peace and joy. “I had some nerves and a sense of unworthiness going into the ordination,” he shared, “but on the day itself, I felt truly safe in the hands of God, at peace, and even filled with joy. Being surrounded by so many priests, family, and friends gave me courage and a deep sense of belonging in the household of faith.”
A Journey Rooted in Faith and Family
Born and raised in the Edmonton area, Deacon Peter’s life of faith was nurtured within his family, with his parents, Murray and Edie, and sisters, Megan and Jessica. Growing up in the community of the Eparchy of Edmonton, Peter developed a quiet yet enduring love for the Church and for the Mystery of God’s presence.
After completing a business degree and spending some time in the professional world, Peter’s heart remained drawn to something deeper, a gentle but persistent call leading him closer to the life of the Church. “I always felt a certain pull toward God’s Mystery,” he reflects. “Even when I wasn’t sure what it all meant, I kept finding myself drawn back to the Church.” His spiritual journey included time spent living within monastic and religious communities, providing him with an environment of prayer and discernment that deepened his understanding of God’s will.
Through those formative years, Peter began to recognize the Lord’s voice calling him toward ordained ministry. It was not a sudden revelation, but a gradual unfolding, one marked by surrender, prayer, and trust in divine providence. “There came a time when I realized that the Lord had been leading me here all along,” he says. “Every experience, every encounter with people of faith, every moment of prayer was shaping me for this vocation.”
Trusting in God’s Grace
Deacon Peter speaks humbly of the life that now unfolds before him. “There is still much to learn,” he admits, “and I know I must continue to strive for a greater likeness to Christ. But I also know the Lord is with me and guiding me.” His gratitude is evident as he reflects on the many people who have supported him along the way: family, formators, friends, and the faithful of the Eparchy. “I am surrounded by a great network of patient, helpful, loving souls,” he says warmly. “Their prayers and encouragement have been an immense gift on this journey.”
The Ministry of the Diaconate, in the Byzantine tradition, calls one to live a life of humble service at the altar and among the people of God, a visible reminder of Christ, the Servant of all. As Deacon Peter begins his ministry, he now stands ready to assist in the Divine Liturgy, proclaim the Gospel, and bring the compassion of Christ to the world through works of mercy and charity.
A Blessing for the Eparchy
For the Eparchy of Edmonton, the ordination of Deacon Peter Pitchko is both a moment of great celebration and a sign of hope. His vocation is a testimony to God’s enduring call in every generation, a reminder that the Holy Spirit continues to raise up servants willing to dedicate their lives to the Gospel.
May the Lord bless Deacon Peter abundantly in his ministry. May the Holy Spirit guide and strengthen him as he serves God and His Holy Church in love, humility, and joy. Axios! He is worthy!
