This year’s celebration of Ukraine’s Independence Day in Silicon Valley began on Saturday, when our parishioners, together with Fr. Roman Bobesiuk, joined a wonderful initiative organized by the Ukrainian Women’s League — a hike to the top of Mission Peak.
This gathering was not only a chance to spend time together, but also a beautiful symbol of Ukrainian spirit, unity, and love for our homeland. At the top of the mountain, Ukrainians sang together, talked, and proudly carried the Ukrainian flag.
On Sunday, August 23, at St. Volodymyr Ukrainian Catholic Church, we offered special prayers for the Ukrainian people, for peace and freedom in Ukraine, and for all those who gave their lives for Ukraine and for all innocent victims.
In his homily, Fr. Roman spoke about the great gift of freedom and the responsibility each of us has to protect it. Freedom should never be taken for granted. It must be valued, protected, and used for good, truth, and love. It is especially important to teach the younger generation the value of freedom, so they can understand its true cost and their responsibility for the future of Ukraine.
After the Divine Liturgy, our parishioners joined the Independence Day celebration at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. The Ukrainian community of Silicon Valley came together in prayer, culture, music, and celebration, showing our unity and love for Ukraine.
Independence Day is not only a time to remember an important part of our history. It is also a time to thank God for the gift of freedom, to remember those who gave their lives for it, and to take responsibility for preserving this gift and passing it on to future generations.
Let us pray for Ukraine, remember her heroes, and cherish the freedom they fought to give us.
Glory to Ukraine!