This week at our St. Volodymyr parish was a special time of quiet, prayer, and inner renewal. It was a moment for all of us to look deeper into our hearts and prepare a worthy place for the birth of the Savior. A special blessing for our community was the presence of the Cross of Gratitude, before which we offered heartfelt daily prayers for Ukraine.
On Friday, we held a night vigil. Fr. Oleh Kepeshchuk, the administrator of the Immaculate Conception parish in San Francisco, came to be with us. He helped many reconcile with God in the Holy Mystery of Confession and reflect more deeply on the mystery of Christ’s Cross. Brother Vitaliy Sobolivskyi shared with us the story of the Cross of Gratitude, its travels around the world, and the spiritual light it brings to those who encounter it.
On Sunday we celebrated the Divine Liturgy, marking the end of this blessed week. After the service, St. Nicholas visited our children, bringing them joy and sweet gifts. With prayer, we bid farewell to the Cross of Gratitude, thanking God for all the graces we received during this time. We then continued our celebration by decorating Christmas cookies together, which brought many smiles and warmth. Everyone also had the chance to support the parish by receiving delicious Ukrainian dishes and homemade baked goods for a donation.
We sincerely thank all the helpers of St. Nicholas and everyone who served, prayed, worked, and supported us. May God’s love always fill your hearts, and may peace and joy dwell in your homes.
More Pictures are HERE