UKRAINIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH OF THE USA

CONSISTORY OFFICE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

PRESS RELEASE

Archpastoral Visit of His Grace Bishop Daniel to Protection of the Birth-Giver of God Ukrainian Orthodox Parish in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

By Deacon John Charest

Sunday, February 14, 2016 was viewed as Valentine’s Day for most of America. While this wasn’t the point of His Grace Bishop Daniel’s visit to St. Mary Protectress parish, the visitation was filled with love. From the moment His Grace was greeted by Fr. Walter Hvostik and the president of the parish’s board of administration Volodymyr Herasynych, there was a warmth in the church that made those in attendance forget about the plummeting temperatures they braved to get there. 

The church was filled to near capacity as the faithful participated in a full hierarchal Divine Liturgy. Noteworthy events from the Liturgy were the beautiful triple litanies sung by the choir and the sermon delivered by His Grace Bishop Daniel.

As the Liturgy concluded, “Many Years” was intoned for His Grace, Fr. Walter, and the Parish and all in attendance were invited to partake of a feast in the church hall. After the prayer, food continued to multiply on the buffet table instead of disappear. The parishioners were excited to note that there were no place to bring food and that everyone brought an offering on their own accord. This extensive feast of homemade delicacies was yet another example of the love this parish has for their Orthodox faith and their excitement to host their bishop. Though a seat was hard to find, nobody went away hungry.

As the meal transitioned from brunch to dessert, there were Shchevchenko poems quoted and songs sung. His Grace Bishop Daniel was able to make his way around the tables and greet the parishioners who are all looking forward to their 100^th year anniversary in October of 2017. If you haven’t planned a trip for 2017, consider visiting St. Mary Protrectress parish in Milwaukee for their celebration. You’re sure to leave full of love and delicious food.

May God grant Bishop Daniel, Fr. Walter, and the parish of St. Mary strength in their faith, peace in their lives, and good health for many years!