UCBC Establishes New Branch at St. Vladimir Parish in Edmonton

September 8, 2026 | Edmonton, Alberta

The Ukrainian Catholic Brotherhood of Canada (UCBC) celebrated an important milestone on Tuesday, September 8, with the official establishment of a new Brotherhood branch at St. Vladimir Ukrainian Catholic Church in Edmonton.

Eleven men from the parish were officially welcomed and installed as the first members of the new branch, marking another step in the growth of the Ukrainian Catholic Brotherhood within the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Edmonton.

The establishment of the branch was initiated and strongly supported by Very Rev. Ivan Nykyforuk, Pastor of St. Vladimir Parish.

The celebration brought together Most Rev. Bishop David Motiuk, Eparch of Edmonton; Very Rev. Ivan Nykyforuk; Very Rev. Michael Kowalchyk; members of the Ukrainian Catholic Brotherhood of Canada; representatives of the Ukrainian Catholic Women’s League of Canada (UCWLC); parishioners; families; guests; and members of the wider Ukrainian Catholic community.

Celebration Begins with Divine Liturgy

The evening began with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, offering thanksgiving to God for the continued growth of the Brotherhood and asking His blessing upon the newly established branch and its members.

During his homily, Bishop David welcomed the new members and offered words of encouragement as they began this new chapter of service within the Church and community.

Following the homily, Very Rev. Michael Kowalchyk also welcomed and blessed the new members of the Brotherhood.

Eleven Members Installed in the New Branch

Following the Divine Liturgy, eleven men from St. Vladimir Parish were formally installed as the first members of the new UCBC branch.

The prayer of installation was led by Bishop David Motiuk and Very Rev. Michael Kowalchyk.

The establishment of the branch strengthens the presence of the Ukrainian Catholic Brotherhood within the Edmonton Eparchy and creates another opportunity for men to grow in faith, fellowship, and service to the Church.

The newly installed Brothers were also welcomed by UCBC Alberta Branch President Vladyslav Hyzhyi and St. George Parish UCBC Branch President Mykola Hryniv, who offered their support as the new branch begins its work.

Bro. Hyzhyi expressed his joy at seeing the Brotherhood continue to grow through the involvement of a new parish and new members.

A Meaningful Day for a New Beginning

The celebration carried additional significance as it took place on the Feast of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos.

As the Church celebrated the birth of the Mother of God and the beginning of a new chapter in God’s plan of salvation, the members of the Brotherhood also celebrated a new beginning at St. Vladimir Parish.

The community offered prayers that the Most Holy Theotokos would guide and protect the new branch as its members begin their service together.

Faith, Family, Fellowship and Service

Following the Divine Liturgy and installation, those in attendance gathered in the parish hall for supper and fellowship.

The gathering provided an opportunity to welcome the new Brothers, strengthen relationships among parishes and Ukrainian Catholic organizations, and celebrate a shared commitment to the life and mission of the Ukrainian Catholic Church.

The establishment of the St. Vladimir Branch represents more than the creation of another organizational branch. It is a sign of growth, renewal, and commitment to the future of the Ukrainian Catholic Brotherhood of Canada.

Through its core values of Faith, Family, Fellowship, and Service, the Brotherhood encourages its members to support the Church, strengthen parish communities, preserve Ukrainian Catholic faith and heritage, and serve those around them.

Gratitude and Congratulations

The UCBC Alberta Branch extends its sincere gratitude to Most Rev. Bishop David Motiuk, Very Rev. Ivan Nykyforuk, Very Rev. Michael Kowalchyk, St. Vladimir Parish, the Ukrainian Catholic Women’s League of Canada, fellow Ukrainian Catholic organizations, parishioners, families, friends, and everyone who participated in the celebration.

Their prayers, presence, encouragement, and support helped make the establishment of the new branch a memorable occasion.

Most importantly, congratulations to the eleven members of the new St. Vladimir UCBC Branch.

May their Brotherhood continue to grow in faith, friendship, fellowship, and service for many years to come.

May God bless the St. Vladimir Branch and all members of the Ukrainian Catholic Brotherhood of Canada.

Многая літа! Mnohaya Lita!

Ukrainian Catholic Brotherhood of Canada – Alberta Branch