"O Heavenly King, Comforter, Spirit of Truth, You are everywhere present and fill all things. Treasury of Blessings and Giver of Life, come and dwell within us, cleanse us of all stain, and save our souls, O Good One." Hymn from the Vespers of Pentecost

With these words on their lips over 300 faithful greeted His Eminence Archbishop Daniel, the Ruling hierarch of the Western Eparchy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA among their midst at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox parish in Bensenville, IL.

On the feast of Pentecost – June 22-23, 2024, Archbishop Daniel led the dual celebration of the holy day and the 15th parish anniversary at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Bensenville, IL. This joyous event was marked by spiritual and communal festivities, with Very Rev. Fr. Bohdan Kalynyuk welcoming the archbishop and congregation.

Upon his arrival, Archbishop Daniel was greeted with traditional Ukrainian hospitality. The children of the parish presented him with bread and salt, symbolic of welcome and prosperity, and adorned him with flowers. The archbishop's presence underscored the significance of the day's celebrations, blending the holy observance of Pentecost with the milestone of the parish's 15th anniversary.

The Orthodox Christians often call Pentecost “Green Sunday”, and in accordance with that tradition, they adorned the Church with much greenery as well as the flowers. Right in front of the Icon screen a beautiful icon of Pentecost was adorned by colorful flowers. Archbishop Daniel wore green and white – symbols of renewed life in Christ, guided by the grace of the Holy Spirit.

During the Divine Liturgy, prayers were fervently offered for Ukraine, still embroiled in an ongoing war. This prayer was a poignant reminder of the community’s connection to their homeland and their continuous hope for peace.

The service was honored by the presence of prominent dignitaries, including Toni Preckwinkle, the President of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, and Congressman Danny K. Davis, representing Illinois' 7th district. Both officials are known advocates for Ukraine, consistently voicing support for Ukrainian refugees and their right to live in peace. Archbishop Daniel recognized their contributions by presenting them with the ecclesiastical award of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA. This award, featuring the Ukrainian trident and the church's logo, is bestowed upon individuals who provide moral, social, and faith-oriented support to Ukraine during times of war.

In his homily, Archbishop Daniel reflected on the significance of Pentecost, also known as the "birthday of the Church." He spoke on the origins of this feast, highlighting its importance in maintaining faith traditions. Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, inspiring them to spread the teachings of Christ and establishing the foundation of the Christian Church. Archbishop Daniel's message emphasized the enduring power of faith and the church's role in nurturing and sustaining this spiritual legacy.

Following the liturgical service, the community gathered for a festive picnic. The children of the parochial school, KALYNA, delighted attendees with a vibrant concert, showcasing their talents and celebrating the cultural heritage of the Ukrainian community.

The event was not only a celebration of a historical milestone for Holy Trinity parish but also a reaffirmation of faith, unity, and cultural identity. The blending of religious observance with community festivities created a day of profound spiritual enrichment and communal joy. As the congregation and guests shared in this special occasion, their prayers for Ukraine and hopes for peace echoed the Pentecostal spirit of renewal and hope.

For more information on this and other news, visit UOCofUSA.