On May 13, on the eve of the Feast of the Ascension, the Eparchy of Edmonton marked an important step forward in communication, listening, and community-building through its Eparchial Online Session: Sobor on the Family & Parish Support. More than 70 participants joined from across Alberta, with at least one representative from every active parish of the Eparchy. Priests, deacons, subdeacons, seminarians, parish council members, parishioners, and volunteers all came together for an evening that reflected the living reality of the Church across the province.
This gathering was more than just an online event. It became a space for encounter, conversation, and mutual support. It also set a new record for Eparchial online participation, showing both the need and the desire for stronger communication and deeper connection between the Eparchy and parish communities.
A Sobor of listening
The first part of the evening was dedicated to the Eparchial Sobor, inspired by the Pastoral Letter of the 2025 Synod of Bishops of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church on family life and adapted to the real needs of local families and parishes. Bishop David introduced the vision behind the Sobor and reflected on the message of the letter, issued on behalf of the Synod by His Beatitude Sviatoslav Shevchuk, Patriarch of Kyiv-Halych, inviting participants into a shared process of reflection, listening, and dialogue.
Participants then entered breakout rooms and spoke openly about their support and the needs of families within their parishes. They shared the programs they already offer, the challenges they face, and the kinds of support they hope to receive from the Eparchy. This part of the evening was especially valuable because every parish had the opportunity to speak, to be heard, and to contribute to the larger picture of parish life in the Eparchy.
These conversations offered important insight into how parishes serve families, children, seniors, and the wider community. They also highlighted where support is needed and where the Eparchy, as the wider body that connects and guides parish life, can improve processes, strengthen collaboration, and help engage more people in the mission of the Church.
Ministry spotlights
The second part of the evening focused on ministry spotlights and gave participants a clearer picture of how the Eparchy supports parishes in practical and pastoral ways. Each ministry introduced its leaders, explained its main responsibilities, presented active projects, and shared how it can help answer parish questions, respond to local needs, and provide ongoing support.
This part was especially meaningful because it showed that the work of the Eparchy is not only administrative but deeply connected to service, accompaniment, and evangelization. The ministries shared resources, ideas, and practical guidance to help parishes grow, communicate more effectively, and serve people more intentionally, all for one shared purpose: spreading the Word of God.
Finances & Administration shared the relationship of the Eparchy with parishes and the importance of their governance and organizational structures, which support parishioners. Participants also learned about a new grant program and a newly developed parish pastoral guide designed to help parishes strengthen their internal processes and improve the practical side of parish life.
The Communications Ministry reminded participants that all Christians are disciples, called by Jesus to be fishers of men. In that spirit, communication is not only about announcements or promotion; it is part of evangelization. By sharing stories, showing the life of our communities, and communicating through every possible channel — from printed materials to digital platforms — parishes can help bring people closer to Christ and to one another.
The Cemetery Ministry explained its main areas of service, including family support, parish support, and guidance related to rural parish cemetery inquiries. This presentation helped participants better understand the pastoral and practical role of cemetery ministry within parish and family life.
The Safe Environments Ministry offered an important reminder that safety builds trust. Screening and safeguarding processes should be an essential part of every parish program, event, camp, and ministry involving children or vulnerable people. Only through these consistent practices can the Church continue building environments that are trustworthy, responsible, and truly safe.
The Family and Life Ministry presented a wide range of active programs, planned events, and resources for families, couples, seniors, young adults, children, and adults. From the Christian Family Movement initiative for married couples and couples in relationships, already launched in some parishes this year, to initiatives for supporting seniors and older parishioners, to events for young adults and resources for catechists, this ministry showed the breadth of support the Eparchy is working to offer at every stage of life.
Building bridges
The evening clearly showed how much value there is in creating space for people not only to receive information but also to speak, listen, and connect. The first part gave people the opportunity to share the real experience of parish life — what is working well, what challenges remain, and where support is needed. The second part helped make the ministries of the Eparchy more visible, understandable, and accessible to the people they are meant to serve.
This initiative, organized and supported by Bishop David and Iryna Pryimak, Head of Communications, was rooted in a desire to build bridges between the Eparchy and every parish. It also reflected a commitment to better understand parish life today, improve communication, and strengthen knowledge of how the Eparchy can support local communities in their mission.
The evening was filled with insight, honest conversation, practical ideas, Christian humour, and positive energy. People were engaged, attentive, and genuinely present throughout the session. That spirit of openness and enthusiasm made it clear that this kind of initiative is not only helpful, but necessary for the life and growth of the Church today.
Looking ahead
This first online gathering is only the beginning. Eparchial ministries plan to offer more focused workshops in the future, each dedicated to specific areas of parish life and service. These sessions will continue to coach, inform, and support clergy, parish leaders, volunteers, and parishioners as they work together to organize, evangelize, and strengthen their communities.
What began as an online session became something much greater: a meaningful step toward a more connected, responsive, and supportive Eparchy. Through listening, collaboration, and shared mission, the Eparchy of Edmonton has opened a new chapter in building community across Alberta.