A Morning of Prayer and Blessing
On a bright morning at St. Vladimir Ukrainian Catholic Parish in Red Deer, parishioners joyfully welcomed Bishop David Motiuk for their annual Parish Praznyk. Rooted in the Ukrainian Catholic tradition, Parish Praznyk marks the feast of a parish’s patron saint. It’s both a spiritual highlight and a beloved communal festival, drawing generations together to renew bonds of faith and heritage.
Bishop David led the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, imparting his apostolic blessing upon all families and parish members. His presence brought unity and encouragement to a community proud of its faith and traditions.
Honouring the Victims of the Holodomor
The day’s prayers also carried profound remembrance. A special Panakhyda (memorial service) was offered for the victims of the Holodomor, the catastrophic man-made famine imposed by the Stalinist regime in 1932–1933, which claimed millions of Ukrainian lives and scarred a nation’s history. Scholars estimate that between 3.9 and 9 million people perished, with at least 13% of Ukraine’s population lost. The Holodomor stands as a stark reminder of the oppression and suffering endured by Ukrainians, yet also of their enduring resilience and hope.
Through prayer and reflection, parishioners united in memory and solidarity, not only for those lost, but for all people currently facing persecution and injustice in Ukraine and around the world.
A Feast of Fellowship and Music
The celebration continued in the parish hall, where families gathered for a festive potluck. Hearty thanks were expressed to everyone who contributed food, prepared the hall, and assisted with cleanup. As plates were shared and friendships renewed, the hall filled with laughter and warmth, a testament to the parish’s spirit of togetherness.
Musical presentations capped the event, as performers shared songs and melodies that lifted hearts and honoured both faith and Ukrainian heritage. These moments of joy, artistry, and gratitude reflected the vibrant life of St. Vladimir Parish, where traditions are cherished, and faith thrives.
A Parish United in Faith and Memory
St. Vladimir Ukrainian Catholic Parish in Red Deer continues to live out its mission: to know God deeply, celebrate Ukrainian culture, and serve the community joyfully. Parish Praznyk is more than a feast; it’s a day of prayer, remembrance, and thanksgiving for the blessings in every generation.
As Bishop David blessed the parish and families, and prayers ascended for the victims of Holodomor, the parish showed what it means to be united in faith, love, and memory. May the prayers, fellowship, and music of this day echo throughout the year, strengthening the bonds that make St. Vladimir Parish a true spiritual home.
