Sr. Iryna Khomyn Visits the Eparchial Pastoral Centre in Edmonton

The Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Edmonton was pleased to welcome Sr. Iryna Khomyn to the Eparchial Pastoral Centre in Edmonton.

Sr. Iryna visited with Lyuba Kowalchuk and Very Rev. Michael Kowalchyk. During their visit, they met with Bishop David Motiuk and members of the Eparchial team to share news, experiences, and hopes for the future of the Bridge of Hope project.

The meeting was a meaningful opportunity to speak about Ukraine, the current needs of children and families, and the continuing work of Bridge of Hope. The project, which was launched by the Eparchy of Edmonton 25 years ago, connects people and communities in Canada and Ukraine through charitable support and practical assistance.

Sr. Iryna shared her experience working with Bridge of Hope and spoke about the situation in Ukraine and the needs of the children and young people served through the project. She coordinates charitable and religious programs of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate and is involved in supporting 13 centres across Ukraine, where orphans and children from vulnerable families receive care and assistance.

During her visit, Sr. Iryna also had the opportunity to learn more about the work of different Eparchial ministries. She met with representatives of the Family and Life ministry, Communications, Finance, and other areas of Eparchial service. She listened to their work and shared her own experience from serving in Ukraine and supporting the Bridge of Hope ministry.

The visit included time for prayer, conversation, and fellowship. Bishop David, Sr. Iryna, and members of the Eparchial team prayed together and shared a meal. Even a simple pizza lunch became a special opportunity to sit together, listen to one another, and enjoy the gift of community.

One of the programs connected with Bridge of Hope is Home of Hope in Lviv. Home of Hope provides a safe place to live for girls and young women aged 16 and older. It allows them to continue their education, develop professional skills, and prepare for independent life.

For young women leaving institutional care, safe housing and ongoing support can be an important step toward a secure and dignified future. Home of Hope offers not only a place to live, but also encouragement, stability, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

As Bridge of Hope approaches its 25th anniversary, Sr. Iryna’s visit reminded us of the deep connection between the Church in Canada and the Church in Ukraine. We may serve in different countries and through many churches, but we share one mission: to proclaim the Good News and help people.

We are grateful to Sr. Iryna, Lyuba Kowalchuk, and Very Rev. Michael Kowalchyk for their visit, friendship, and shared commitment to serving children, families, and communities in Ukraine.

Learn more about Home of Hope and support the Bridge of Hope project:

https://ourbridgeofhope.com/our-programs/home-of-hope/