On Sunday, June 22, as our Church celebrated the Feast of All Saints of the Ukrainian People, a special event took place in our parish community – the blessing of an icon of Blessed Priest-Martyr Nicholas Charnetsky. His holy relics were placed within the icon and have been entrusted to our parish of St. Volodymyr for permanent veneration.
In his homily, Fr. Roman Bobesiuk emphasized that the life of Blessed Nicholas is a living example of holiness, perseverance in faith, and unwavering devotion to Christ, even in the most difficult trials. It was especially meaningful that this event happened on the day we honor all the saints of our nation – those who glorified God through their faith and sacrifice on Ukrainian soil.
After the Divine Liturgy, the faithful prayed for healing and for the Ukrainian people. These prayers concluded with anointing using oil that had been blessed on the relics of Blessed Nicholas – a sign of hope, spiritual strength, and peace.
That same day, with the blessing of Bishop Benedict, Fr. Roman also announced the formation of a men’s brotherhood in honor of Blessed Nicholas Charnetsky. This brotherhood is meant to unite the men of the parish in prayer, service, and mutual support. “We need spiritual unity and the courageous faith that Blessed Nicholas lived,” said Fr. Roman.
May this event mark a new beginning in the life of our parish, and may the holiness of Blessed Nicholas inspire us all to follow the path of the Gospel.
