Eparchy of New Westminster

06/12/2026

🙏 EPARCHIAL PILGRIMAGE TO GRINDROD 2026 🙏

Join us for the Annual Eparchial Pilgrimage at Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Parish in Grindrod, BC.

📅 June 26–27, 2026 (Friday–Saturday)

This year's theme:

✨ "Persevering in Hope, Strong in Love"
(Romans 12:12)

Come together with faithful from across our Eparchy for a weekend of:

🙏 Prayer
⛪ Spiritual Renewal
🤝 Fellowship
❤️ Faith and Community

Families, youth, children, and individuals of all ages are warmly welcome!

📍 Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Parish
Grindrod, British Columbia

⚠️ Registration is required for everyone attending and must be completed by June 20, 2026.

The parishioners of Grindrod will be generously preparing meals for all pilgrims, so an accurate count of participants is necessary.

📝 Please register using the following link:

https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=RiSYNE8n8EehsRswZixz-3i74Vm9B4hFkvmFvnvGdYdURUc0NVNQM0o0U1hPVEJETkRXT0I3S1ExUC4u&origin=Invitation&channel=1

We look forward to praying and celebrating our faith together!

💙💛 Everyone is Welcome!

06/10/2026

Dear Faithful of the Eparchy of New Westminster, Read this Statement! It is brief, but filled with information and rich with Christian truth about our love and respect for the elderly and those experiencing pain and fear of illness. The provided click-on links lead us to a lot more information as we are ready to absorb it. May this lead all our Faithful, clergy laity and religious to react in these four responses:
- voice concern about “MAID,
- remain steadfast in opposing euthanasia and assisted su***de
- pray for the conversion of hearts and minds away from this practice
- be present and reach out to persons who are sick and vulnerable.

If we continue to unite our efforts in these things we will manage to push back this cloud of hopelessness and bring the sunshine of the Gospel into our society and into the lives of many who need that right now.

+Michael, Eparchy of New Westminster

STATEMENT BY THE CCCB STANDING COMMITTEE FOR FAMILY AND LIFE TO THE CATHOLIC FAITHFUL IN CANADA AND ALL PEOPLE OF GOOD WILL

VOICING CONCERN AND CALLING FOR PRAYERS ON THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF EUTHANASIA AND ASSISTED SU***DE (“MAID”)

On June 17, 2026, a decade will have passed since Bill C-14 received Royal Assent, legalizing euthanasia and assisted su***de across Canada, and permitting eligible adults, under specified conditions, to access what is legally termed “Medical Assistance in Dying” (“MAID”). As we mark this sobering anniversary, the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (CCCB) Standing Committee for Family and Life invites the Catholic faithful and all people of goodwill to voice renewed concern about “MAID,” to remain steadfast in opposing euthanasia and assisted su***de, to pray for the conversion of hearts and minds away from this practice, and to be present to persons who are sick and vulnerable.

Canada now has “the world’s largest and fastest-growing euthanasia program.”1 The percentage of “MAID” deaths is increasing annually and accounts for 5.1% of all deaths in 2024 (or 16,499 Canadians).2 Since its legalization, an estimated 100,000 Canadians have died by euthanasia or assisted su***de.3 Grave concern is warranted regarding the continued expansion of the eligibility criteria for “MAID,” which puts increasing numbers of Canadians at risk. In 2016, only individuals whose death was “reasonably foreseeable” were eligible for “MAID” with so-called “safeguards” in place. Subsequent legislation in 2021, however, considerably broadened the criteria, expanding access to include those whose death is not reasonably foreseeable, but whose condition is “grievous and irremediable.”4

On this occasion, we reject complacency with the status quo on euthanasia in Canada. Formed by the Gospel, we are called to draw near to those who suffer: not to ignore, trivialize, or abandon them in their pain or despair, but to accompany them with compassion, practical care, and hope (cf. Lk 10:30-37). We actively seek opportunities for effective, collaborative strategies to provide concrete and compassionate support to those living with serious physical or mental illness, those with disabilities, and those nearing the end of life, as well as their families and caregivers.

As disciples of Christ, we affirm that every human life is a gift, holds profound dignity and value, and is part of a human community (cf. Mt 25:31-46). In contrast, euthanasia and assisted su***de, whatever their motives or means, consist in intentionally causing or hastening the death of a person who is sick, suffering, disabled, or dying in order to eliminate suffering. Such acts can never be morally acceptable, for they are gravely contrary to the dignity of the human person and to the
respect due to God, the Creator and Lord of life.5 True compassion does not answer suffering with death, but accompanies those who suffer with hope, presence, palliative care, and relief of pain. Together with healthcare professionals, patients, and families, our faith teaches that we must strive for proportionate treatment options that neither unduly prolong nor intentionally hasten death, but instead offer life-affirming and compassionate care.

On this 10th anniversary, we pray for all those whose lives have been lost to “MAID.” We also pray for their loved ones, many of whom continue to carry grief, confusion, regret, or unanswered questions. We remember those who continue to suffer: the sick, persons with disabilities, the elderly, those living with mental illness, those nearing the end of life, and all who experience loneliness, fear, or despair. We renew our call to “give witness at the side of the sick person and to become a ‘healing community’ in order to actualize concretely the desire of Jesus that, beginning with the most weak and vulnerable, all may be one flesh.”6 Even in suffering, illness, dependence, and frailty, human life retains its God-given dignity and capacity for love, communion, and grace.

We give thanks to the many dioceses, eparchies, parishes, organizations, healthcare workers, families, and volunteers who, over the past 10 years, have promoted Christian hope in the face of illness and death and have resisted “MAID” with courage and compassion. Their witness reminds us that defending life is not only a public teaching, but also a daily work of presence: visiting the sick, supporting caregivers, accompanying those in despair, advocating for the vulnerable, and helping build communities where no one feels they must face suffering alone.

In this moment of sober reflection, prayer, and renewed responsibility, we call the Catholic faithful to pray for those who are sick, suffering, isolated, or nearing the end of life; for their families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals; and for the conversion of hearts and minds toward a culture that receives every life as a gift and never abandons those most in need. The resources below reflect the Church in Canada’s ongoing commitment to building compassionate communities, promoting authentic palliative care, and providing practical support to all who suffer.7 May the Church in Canada continue to be a place where people, especially the sick, elderly, disabled, suffering, and dying, are received with love, accompanied with compassion, and reminded that their life remains precious in the eyes of God.

Issued with the approval of the Permanent Council 10 June 2026

_________________________
Footnotes…..

1. Alexander Raikin, “We were promised MAiD would be rare. Instead, Canadian euthanasia deaths are soaring,” The Hub, August 21, 2024.
2. Government of Canada, Sixth Annual Report on Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada, 2024, “2. MAiD requests and outcomes, updated November 11, 2025, accessed May 15, 2026.
3. Terry O’Neill, “MAiD at 10: How Assisted Dying Is Reshaping Canada,” The B.C. Catholic, April 23, 2024.
4. Bill C‑7, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (medical assistance in dying), 2021.
5. Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2nd ed. (Vatican City: Libreria Editrice Vaticana, 2000), #2277; Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Samaritanus Bonus: On the Care of Persons in the Critical and Terminal Phases of Life (Vatican City: Holy See, 2020), Especially: sec. V, no. 10.
6. Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Samaritanus Bonus: On the Care of Persons in the Critical and Terminal Phases of Life (Vatican City: Holy See, 2020), sec. V, no. 10, “Pastoral accompaniment and the support of the sacraments”.
7. Cf. Pope Francis, Letter to participants, “Towards a Narrative of Hope: An International Interfaith Symposium on Palliative Care,” 21-23 May 2024; Cf. Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, “Interfaith Statement on Palliative Care,” June 14, 2016.

___________________________________

PRAYER

In communion with our Lord, the Great Physician, let us offer together a prayer of hope, compassion, and vision towards the promise of everlasting love and life:

Loving God, rock of strength for those who trust in you; comforter of those who call on you. Hear the cry of those who suffer from sickness or weakness and embrace them in your loving arms. Give them peace and strengthen them with the vision of your kingdom. We make this prayer through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

[“Prayer for the Chronically Ill” excerpted from Blessings and Prayers for Home and Family @ Concacan Inc., 2004. All rights reserved.]

___________________________________

Statements and Resources Issued by the Church across Canada:

CCCB Publications and Resources
• Horizons of Hope: A Toolkit for Catholic Parishes on Palliative Care, 2019.
• Statement on the Non-Permissibility of Euthanasia and Assisted Su***de within Canadian Health Organizations with a Catholic Identity, 2023.
• Towards a Narrative of Hope: An International Interfaith Symposium on Palliative Care, May 2024.
• Pope Francis, To the Participants in the Symposium “Towards a Narrative of Hope: An International Interfaith Symposium on Palliative Care”, 2024.
• Post-Symposium Statement and Recommendations, 2024.

Canadian Dioceses and Eparchies
• Archdiocese of Boniface, End-of-Life and Palliative Care
• Archdiocese of Edmonton, Hope & Dignity
• Archdiocese of Montreal, Life and its seasons
• Archdiocese of Toronto, Palliative Care (End-of-Life Care)
• Diocese of Calgary, Horizons of Hope
• Diocese of Hamilton, Palliative Care Information
• Diocese of London, Choose Life
• Diocese of Peterborough, Euthanasia and Assisted Su***de (brochure)
• Diocese of Rimouski, Soins palliatifs
• Diocese of Saskatoon, Anointing of the Sick (brochure)
• Diocese of Victoria, Care of the Dying
• Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Edmonton, Pastoral Initiative

06/10/2026

06/08/2026

HOLY EUCHARIST CATHEDRAL PARISH PREPARES FOR 2027 ANNIVERSARY

The Parish of Holy Eucharist Cathedral is preparing to celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2027, so it kicked off the festivities and fundraising this year with a gala evening hosted by Cathedral Rector Very Rev. Fr. Mykhailo Ozorovych and many parish volunteers.

The evening began in the church with Vespers with Lytia that celebrated the Parish Praznyk of the Feast of the Holy Eucharist as well as the Feast of All Saints of Ukraine. The first feast was carried to the Sunday from Thursday June 4th and the second feast of all saints of the Ukrainian Nation was establish by the Synod of Bishops in 1991 to take place on the Sunday after All Saints.
Vespers was led by Fr. Mykhailo Ozorovych while singers and a considerably larger than usual congregation sang the response. Bishop Michael presided at the Lytia when the loaves of bread, wine, oil and wheat are blessed and later distributed with an anointing.

The dinner in the hall in the lower level beneath the Cathedral was truly a gala event. The kitchen team of the cathedral under the leadership of head chef Tetyana Korobanova prepared and served a truly exquisite meal of amazing hors d’oeuvres a hot meal and a plethora of desserts for every taste. Seminarian Juan Salas served as the maître d' of the evening directing a team of young men in serving the tables and providing refreshments throughout the event. The entire event was meticulously coordinated by the Cathedral’s Director of Development, Iryna Dzobko.

Fr. Mykhailo Ozorovych served as the host and master of ceremonies for the evening. He explained that the goal of the evening was to serve as a fundraiser, but especially as an awareness-raiser about the great jubilee year of the Cathedral parish in 2027. He shared about the history of the parish from the first gatherings of faithful, the priests that served them and how the parish grew, especially with the influx of newcomers after the Second World War. During the evening, he thanked and acknowledged those who contributed to parish life in special ways…. the priests, the religious Sisters and the dedicated parishioners who committed themselves and their livelihoods so that the parish would grow. He thanked George & Millie Kozak, the oldest couple of the parish there that evening, as representative of all parishioners who remained faithful to their Church and to their parish their entire lives. Throughout the dinner special guests, including Bishop Michael Kwiatkowski, the local Member of Parliament Jacob Sawatsky and the Mayor of New Westminster Patrick Johnstone were all invited to speak. The cooks who prepared the meal were duly thanked as was lead singer Halyna Bybyk who was also celebrating her birthday at the time. A professional bandura-player, Svitlana Prysiazhna, performed a few soul-transcending numbers during the evening, some for which she sang.

It was a delightful evening enjoyed by all. We need only keep in mind that this was only the beginning! We now have a year (but only a year!) to prepare for a worthy celebration of the parish’s 75th anniversary… a commemoration that will do true justice to the pioneers, the parishioners, Sisters, and clergy who struggled and rejoiced and pulled-together and shared joys and sorrows over the years, but kept the parish going and growing. And, above all, to give glory to God whose love, grace and salvation are the sole reason and purpose of this parish and why every effort associated with the parish is immeasurably more than worth it!

06/06/2026

ELEVATION OF ARCHIMADRITE RICHARD SOO: A JOYOUS DAY

On May 27, Holy Eucharist Cathedral in New Westminster was the site of a very rare and special event for the Church. By decree of the Father and Head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, His Beatitude Sviatoslav, and with due consent of his monastic superiors, Father Richard Soo, SJ was elevate to the status of “Archimandrite” in the presence of clergy, religious and many faithful who all came out to exclaim their heartfelt “Aksios!”.

Father Richard, a priest of the Society of Jesus, has dedicatedly served the Ukrainian Catholic Church in various eparchies – including: a pastor, chancellor, vicar general, syncellus and retreat master, etc. - for many years. His service is always marked with excellence, kindness and a great sense of humour. Aside from his ecclesial work, he is well known for his successful Evangelical outreach to the Chinese community and beyond. Wherever he has served, his love for the Eastern Catholic churches and prayer is extended to everyone. His present ministry in Richmond is a typical example – his services are attended by grateful Ukrainian newcomers, enthusiastic members of the Chinese community, and members of Iranian, Egyptian and other backgrounds. All are welcome. Fr. Richard has also been outspoken regarding human rights abuses in China - notably his standing with the people in relation to the Umbrella Movement of Hong Kong, and his continuous prayer and public manifestations for an end to the war in Ukraine.

Bishop Michael Kwiatkowski, of the Eparchy of New Westminster, led the ceremony with the assistance many others. The ancient Akathist prayer service in praise of the Theotokos, was led by Vicar General, Fr. Mykhailo Ozorovych and was concelebrated by several other priests, deacons and subdeacons. A mixed group of singers from the Cathedral parish and Fr. Richard’s ‘Eastern Catholic’ parish of the Dormition of the Theotokos led the responses. When the time for the elevation ceremony came, the Rt. Reverend Archpriest Fr. Joe Ostopowich functioned as the Archdeacon who presented Fr. Richard. The Vice-Chancellor from the Eparchy of Toronto, V. Rev. Roman Lobay read His Beatitude’s Decree as well as a greeting from the Bishop of Toronto, Bishop Bryan Bayda, C.Ss.R. Deacon Christopher Chiu, who was recently ordained to the Diaconate in Fr. Richard’s parish, assisted by the subdeacons Adrian and Ryan and seminarian Juan, presented the insignia of Archimandrite Richard’s new status.

As the congregation responded with an enthusiastic “Aksios!” (i.e. “he is worthy of this honour and responsibility!”), Bishop Michael presented to Archimandrite Richard… the epigonation (“strap on your sword… mighty in your splendour and goodness…. your right hand will lead you to victory…”)… the pectoral cross (“protect me Lord, Jesus Christ by the sign of Your holy Cross…) … and the mitre (“… helmet of salvation…”). Later, Fr. Richard received the mantia (cape) of an Archimandrite and a staff (crozier), at which the Bishop said, “Accept the crozier so that, supported by it, you may tend your flock, for you will have to give an account for it to our God on the day of judgement”.

It was a joyful occasion for the Eparchy and for the whole Church as not only a worthy priest was acknowledged for his years of service and continued ministry, but the faithful also gained a unique leader in the fulfilment of the mission of Christ’s Church upon the Earth.

A wonderful reception was held just down the street at the Bishop Jerome Eparchial Centre.

(photos: Mary Jean Kwiatkowski, Volodymyr Mykhalyshyn)

06/05/2026

EPARCHY OF NEW WESTMINSTER BIDS FAREWELL TO SISTER AMBROSE

Today, 4 June 2026, as the funeral services are held in Winnipeg, the faithful of the Eparchy of New Westminster also bid a prayerful farewell to Sister Ambrose Stachiw, SSMI who served the Ukrainian Catholic parishes on Canada’s west coast for many years.

In the large chapel of the principal residence of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate in Winnipeg, known as “Bethany Home”, Metropolitan Lawrence Huculak, OSBM, presided at the Divine Liturgy and funeral rites for this 92-year-old servant of God who was born in Ukraine, but served the Lord and His Church in Canada for many decades.
Several priests and many Sisters joined Metropolitan Lawrence, Metropolitan emeritus Stefan Soroka and auxiliary Bishop Andriy Rabiy for a funeral service that was described as more joyful than sad as the Church in Canada bid farewell to Sister Ambrose. Some of Sister’s family members were present as well as many faithful, who poured out into the corridors around the chapel.

After returning to university in 1994, Sister Ambrose accepted the appointment to the Eparchy of New Westminster to work in the Catechetical department together with Sister Ruth Aney, SSMI this ministry continued for eighteen years. Over the years, many Sisters have served the Eparchy in many ways. We are presently blessed to have Sister Angelica Hodowansky, SSMI and Sister Janice Soluk, SSMI who serve in New Westminster and travel throughout the territory visiting our parishes.

The Eparchy of New Westminster – our bishops, clergy and lay-faithful over the years - are indebted to Sister Ambrose for her almost two decades of overseeing religious education among us. May our loving Lord welcome her into His Heavenly Kingdom and grant her eternal memory among the saints and angels.

Vichna yiy pamyat’! Вічна їй пам'ять!

VIDEO: You may watch the funeral service at the Bethany Home Chapel via YouTube. To learn more about Sr. Ambrose’s life, you may focus on Metropolitan Lawrence’s homily, which begins at 39:40, an on the eulogy delivered by the SSMI Provincial Superior from Toronto, Sister Christina Syrotynsky, which begins at 1:32:25.

06/05/2026

New icons and altar linens for Penticton Parish

For over forty years, Holy Resurrection Ukrainian Catholic Mission Parish in Penticton has remained a steadfast witness to the Byzantine tradition in the South Okanagan. The parish’s history began on April 6, 1985, when Fr. Joseph Ostopowich celebrated its very first Divine Liturgy.

Recently, the community experienced the maternal care of the Mother of God through a generous gift from the Traynor family. They donated a beautiful pair of eight-foot icons from Ukraine depicting Our Lord Jesus Christ and the Most Holy Theotokos. These sacred images now form a movable iconostasis, transforming their worship space within St. John Vianney Roman Catholic Parish into a visibly Byzantine sanctuary.

Additionally, the parish was blessed with a new set of white and gold altar linens, which were blessed on the Sunday of All Saints to enhance the dignity of the Holy Mysteries.

May these sacred gifts help foster a deeper love for the Divine Liturgy, a greater appreciation for the spiritual inheritance of our Ukrainian Catholic Church, and a renewed desire for holiness among all who worship at Holy Resurrection Parish.
Thank you Traynor family.

Through the prayers of the Mother of God, O Saviour, Save Us!

in Christ - з Богом!
o. Andriy

05/28/2026

АКСІОС! ЗА НОВОПОСТАНОВЛЕНОГО АРХИМАНДРИТА

У катедральному соборі Пресвятої Євхаристії Нью-Вестмінстерської Єпархії відбулася урочиста та духовно піднесена подія, уведення преподобного ієромонаха Ричарда Су, ТІ, до гідності архімандрита. Цей почесний чин був наданий декретом Отця і Глави Української Греко-Католицької Церкви, Блаженнішого Святослава, на знак визнання та вдячності за ревне служіння, вірність Церкві Христовій та багатолітню душпастирську працю.
Святкове богослужіння мало форму стародавнього Богородичного Акафіста VI століття, під час якого і відбулося урочисте возведення отця Ричарда Су до архімандричого достоїнства.
Святкове богослужіння очолив Преосвященний Владика Михайло Квятковський у співслужінні духовенства Нью-Вестмінстерської Єпархії. Провадив моління та урочистості ректор катедри, отець Михайло Озорович.
На початку богослужіння, у світлі благодатного періоду після празника П’ятидесятниці, усі присутні були запрошені до спільної молитви до Святого Духа словами древнього церковного гімну «Царю Небесний». Особливого духовного змісту урочистості набув Акафіст, у контексті якого й відбулося возведення отця Ричарда Су до архімандричого достоїнства.
На святковому богослужінні були присутні численні священники з долини Оканаган, з островів Британської Колумбії, диякони, піддиякони, духовенство Нью-Вестмінстерської Єпархії, а також численні віряни й парафіяни отця Ричарда, які прибули, аби розділити цю історичну мить зі своїм духовним наставником.
Особливою честю стала присутність представника Владики Браяна Байди, отця Романа Лобая, віцеканцлера Торонтонської Єпархії, який передав вітання та духовну підтримку від Владики Браяна. Цей жест братньої єдності між єпархіями став свідченням пошани та вдячності новому архімандритові.
Молитовний спів супроводжувався величним служінням хору катедрального собору Пресвятої Євхаристії та хору парафії Успіння Пресвятої Богородиці з Річмонда. Спільний спів надав богослужінню особливої урочистості та духовної глибини.
У своїй промові нововозведений архімандрит особливо наголосив, що від самого початку свого служіння відчув щиру єдність і підтримку української громади, яка стала для нього справжньою духовною родиною. Він поділився, що не має жодних кордонів чи перешкод для служіння Христові та Його Церкві, громаді, незалежно від походження. За словами отця Ричарда Су, справжня єдність Церкви народжується через любов, покликання та живу віру у Христа. Він також підкреслив, що Українська Греко-Католицька Церква відкрита для всіх народів, а кожна людина є бажаною у Божому домі, де всі приймаються як брати і сестри у Христі.
Отець Ричард Су зі смиренням прийняв архімандричий чин, об’єднавши навколо цього великого духовного свята братів і сестер у Христі різного походження, культури та життєвого шляху. Атмосфера величі Божого Духа, миру та церковної єдності переповнила серця всіх присутніх.
Кульмінацією урочистостей стало співання «Аксіос!» та многоліття на честь нового архімандрита. Архімандрича мантія та жезл стали зовнішнім знаком великої відповідальності та духовного служіння, яке Церква довірила отцю Су.
Після завершення богослужіння духовенство, гості та віряни були запрошені на святкову вечерю до Єпархіального центру імені Владики Єроніма, першого єпископа Нью-Вестмінстерської Єпархії. У братній атмосфері продовжилося спілкування, сповнене вдячності Богові за дар служіння, єдності та живої присутності Святого Духа у житті Христової Церкви.

[Стаття і фотографії: Володимир Михалишин]

05/25/2026

POPE LEO ISSUES ENCYCLICAL LETTER ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

ПАПА ЛЕВ У СВОЇ ПЕРШІЙ ЕНЦИКЛИЦІ «MAGNIFICA HUMANITAS» РОЗМІРКОВУЄ ПРО СОЦІАЛЬНУ ДОКТРИНУ ЦЕРКВИ В ЕПОХУ ШТУЧНОГО ІНТЕЛЕКТУ

On the occasion of Pope Leo XIV’s First Encyclical Letter: Magnifica Humanitas, the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops has shared this information-filled press release.

25 May 2026, Ottawa – Pope Leo XIV’s Encyclical Letter, Magnifica Humanitas, was released today. It focuses on safeguarding the human person in the time of artificial intelligence. The letter is dated 15 May, to commemorate the 135th anniversary of Pope Leo XIII’s Encyclical Letter, Rerum Novarum.

The Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development offers the following synopsis of the Encyclical Letter: “Magnifica Humanitas offers insights into the protection of the human person in the age of artificial intelligence, recognizing a profound epochal shift. It places the dignity of the human person at the centre as the criteria for guiding technical progress. The Church’s social teaching accompanies these transformations, pointing to the common good, solidarity and subsidiarity as the fundamental benchmarks for understanding and interpreting the transformation currently underway. It proposes, as an alternative to the culture of power and war, a civilization of love founded on justice, dialogue and shared responsibility.”

To accompany the Encyclical Letter, the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops has prepared a collection of resources on the topic of artificial intelligence.
•
Message of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV for the 60th World Day of Social Communications: Preserving Human Voices and Faces
•
Inter-Dicasterial Commission on Artificial Intelligence
•
Message of Pope Leo XIV to Participants in the Second Annual Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Ethics, and Corporate Governance
•
Antiqua et Nova: Note on the Relationship Between Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence
•
Message of His Holiness Pope Francis for the 58th World Day of Social Communications - Artificial Intelligence and the Wisdom of the Heart: Towards a Fully Human Communication

Link to the Encyclical Letter

05/24/2026

Mission Days 2026 — Sunday, May 24 (Pentecost) - Reflection by Bishop Mykhailo Kwiatkowski

📺 Please find today’s video reflection below:
https://youtu.be/ytT9fdgKkhI

“The Holy Spirit — the Source of Living Water for Marriage and Family” John 7:37–39

Сьогодні, як Ви помітили, молебень це свого роду поєднання Молебню до Богородиці, який ми молимося протягом травня, а також деяких уривків із Молебню до Святого Духа, оскільки нині ми святкуємо дивовижне свято Зіслання Святого Духа.
Я дуже радий і пишаюся священниками нашої єпархії, що вони погодилися зробити цьогорічну Декаду місійності особливою. Дехто з них проводив молитву, а також запропонував проповідь-роздум на тему дня. Загальна тема цього року це християнська сім’я, але кожен із десяти місійних днів має також свою окрему, більш сфокусовану тему. Сьогоднішня тема стосується наших стосунків зі Святим Духом і Святого Духа як «джерела живої води для друзів та родини».
З одного боку, мені досить легко провести заключні роздуми про Місійні дні, тому що вже було висловлено так багато важливих думок. Усе, що тепер залишається сказати, це або підсумок уроків, або просте: «Амінь! Я погоджуюся, і давайте почнемо жити згідно з тим, чого ми навчилися під час цієї Декади!» З іншого боку, є дещо, що варто додати, оскільки сьогодні ми святкуємо Зіслання Святого Духа і те, що після цього моменту Церква та світ уже ніколи не були такими, як раніше.
Бачите, сенс Декади місійності полягає в тому, щоб просвітити нас знаннями, навичками та мужністю, які нам потрібні, щоб нести Добру Новину Євангелія та силу вчення і таїнств Церкви всім навколо нас. А Місійні дні покликані об’єднати нас у молитві як єдину Божу спільноту, якою ми маємо бути. Декада місійності покликана зміцнити нас і заохотити до сміливого проголошення правди про Спасіння всім народам. Саме це зробив Святий Дух у день, який дехто називає «днем народження Церкви», коли Він зійшов на апостолів у пориві вітру та з’явився над кожним у вигляді вогненних язиків. Як ми щойно чули в читанні з Діянь Апостолів, вони сповнилися Святого Духа, говорили різними мовами та наріччями і сміливо виходили до людей, до членів родини, друзів, незнайомців і навіть ворогів, до кожного, хто був готовий слухати. Вони радісно та переконливо проголошували істину Божого Слова та радість вічного спасіння. Саме до цього ми покликані, і саме для цього Господь дасть нам сили!
У сьогоднішньому Євангелії ми бачимо надзвичайний момент ентузіазму, обіцянки та пророцтва від Ісуса Христа. Що каже Святе Письмо? В останній і найбільший день свята Сукот, або Свята наметів, Ісус раптом вигукнув на весь голос: «Хто спраглий, нехай прийде до Мене, і хто вірує в Мене, нехай п’є: з лона його потечуть ріки живої води!» Він говорив до людей із радістю, любов’ю та такою глибокою владою, що вони визнали Його святість і чистоту, а істина, яку Він проголошував, закарбувалася в їхніх серцях і душах. Це була правда, і вони знали, що це правда, а правда зробила їх вільними. Навіть охоронці, яким наказали Його заарештувати, просто не могли цього зробити. Вони казали: «Хіба ви не чуєте Його? Послухайте, що Він говорить. Ніхто ніколи так не говорив!»
Мої брати і сестри, ця благодать Святого Духа дана нам від моменту нашого миропомазання і супроводжує нас упродовж усього життя. Сьогодні, у свято Зіслання Святого Духа, ми також хочемо глибоко пити живу воду, яку дає нам Господь, і ділитися нею з тими, хто поруч із нами та хто спраглий. Ми хочемо дозволити благодаті Святого Духа надихнути нас ділитися навіть тією малою благодаттю, яку, як нам здається, ми маємо. Ми хочемо дозволити Святому Духові надихати нас словами, давати нам мужність і красномовство висловлювати їх згідно з Божою волею. Ми хочемо продовжувати черпати цю живу воду через катехитичне навчання, ще частіше приходячи до Церкви Христової, щоб молитися, навчатися та зростати у святості. Господь, безсумнівно, закликає нас іти до наших сімей та кіл друзів і свідчити про віру, як ті апостоли, про яких ми читаємо в сьогоднішньому Євангелії. Поділимося зі світом живими водами істини, спасіння та вічного життя, якими Господь ділиться з нами, щоб ми насолоджувалися ними та передавали їх іншим.
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Today we conclude the Mission Days on this Pentecost Sunday, but just like Pentecost and the Descent of the Holy Spirit were a whole new beginning for the world, so are mission days are not a conclusion, but a whole new beginning for us!

Today’s theme for the Mission Days tenth day is “the Holy Spirit as a source of living water for friends and family”. In today’s Gospel we hear of how Jesus comes into Jerusalem, kind of unknown, for the annual Festival of Booths. On the big concluding day, he stands in the open and shouts out in a loud voice that everyone hears! “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me, and let the one who believes in me drink. Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water.’” He goes on to share more about the Faith that mesmerizes everyone. Even the guards that are sent to arrest Him, Don’t arrest him. Their response is sort of “are you kidding!? Don’t you hear this guy!? Listen to what He is saying. Never has anyone spoken like this!” We have become informed and encouraged and empowered over these Mission Days. We have prayed together daily and learned and have received the gift of the Holy Spirit and we are ready to perform these next Mission Days tasks prescribed for this day:

Missionary tasks: 1. On a Personal level: Let us ask the Holy Spirit today in prayer to show us what our hearts most thirst for.
2. on the Parish level: Let us organize or join in a common prayer to the Holy Spirit in the parish for families, we can think of families that are experiencing separation as a result of the war. There are many among us who have left family members in Ukraine and they are here. Far away. They are concerned and their family members in Ukraine are concerned. We can also call to mind families around us who are going through challenging times, perhaps our own families. Families that are troubled and families that have new concerns – a newborn child, need for financial or emotional and spiritual support.
3. Then there us what the guidebook is calling on the Missionary level: This is something a bit more concrete. Let us try to become “bearers of living water” for others – let us support a specific family that is experiencing difficulties with a kind word, attention, prayer, or simply by our presence.

To help us with all that and to inspire us with the great importance for us to Evangelize all peoples – beginning with our own families, I want to familiarize us with a Papal Document about Evangelization issued by Pope Saint Paul only a year after our Eparchy was established in 1974. It is about Evangelization in the Modern World and its called, Proclaiming the Gospel. What key messages can we take from this to help us participate in the Evangelization of the world around us beginning with ourselves and our families?

First, Jesus: The First and Greatest Evangelist, we take His example of speaking with truth and humility at every opportunity even to the point of the sacrifice, in His case, even the sacrifice of His earthly life.

He was effective, because He spoke the message of God, proclaiming the Kingdom of God by word and by the example of the way He lived His life.

Evangelization: is not for some people or “nice” if you can do it. It is the Essential Mission of the Church. Part of the reason why the world or our society slips into darkness and chaos is because the people don’t know the Gospel Message. Who is to teach them? You and me.

“Evangelizing is in fact the grace and vocation proper to the Church, her deepest identity. She exists in order to evangelize, that is to say, in order to preach and teach, to be the channel of the gift of grace, to reconcile sinners with God, and to perpetuate Christ’s sacrifice in the Mass, which is the memorial of His death and glorious resurrection” (14).

Every member of the Church has a divine mandate to evangelize. This mission begins with personal transformation and an interior conversion to the Gospel:

“The purpose of evangelization is therefore precisely this interior change, and if it had to be expressed in one sentence the best way of stating it would be to say that the Church evangelizes when she seeks to convert, solely through the divine power of the message she proclaims, both the personal and collective consciences of people, the activities in which they engage, and the lives and concrete milieu which are theirs” (18).

3. The Need for Authentic Witnesses
Credible witnesses are essential for effective evangelization.

“Modern man listens more willingly to witnesses than to teachers, and if he does listen to teachers, it is because they are witnesses” (41).

Evangelical zeal must be rooted in personal holiness:

“Evangelical zeal must spring from true holiness of life” (76).

Holiness, however, should not be a barrier to action. The processes of being evangelized and evangelizing others are complementary and mutually reinforcing.

4. The Holy Spirit: Principal Agent and Goal of Evangelization
The Holy Spirit is indispensable to evangelization.

“Evangelization will never be possible without the action of the Holy Spirit… Techniques of evangelization are good, but even the most advanced ones could not replace the gentle action of the Spirit. The most perfect preparation of the evangelizer has no effect without the Holy Spirit. Without the Holy Spirit the most convincing dialectic has no power over the heart of man. Without Him the most highly developed schemas resting on a sociological or psychological basis are quickly seen to be quite valueless” (75).

The Holy Spirit not only empowers evangelizers but is also the ultimate goal of evangelization:

“It must be said that the Holy Spirit is the principal agent of evangelization: it is He who impels each individual to proclaim the Gospel, and it is He who in the depths of consciences causes the word of salvation to be accepted and understood. But it can equally be said that He is the goal of evangelization: He alone stirs up the new creation, the new humanity of which evangelization is to be the result, with that unity in variety which evangelization wishes to achieve within the Christian community” (75).

Most Rev. Michael Kwiatkowski,
Bishop, Eparchy of New Westminster

“The Holy Spirit — the Source of Living Water for Marriage and Fami...