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25th Anniversary of Archpastoral Service of the Most Reverend Yurij

May 25, 2014

On May 25, 2014, hierarchs, clergy and faithful from across Canada gathered at the Ukrainian Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in Winnipeg, MB to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Episcopal Consecration of His Eminence Metropolitan Yurij.

The Divine Liturgy was celebrated by 7 hierarchs: Metropolitan Yurij, Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada (UOCC); Metropolitan Antony, Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA; Bishop Christopher, Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Canada; Bishop Ilarion, Western Eparchy of the UOCC; Bishop Andriy, Eastern Eparchy of the UOCC; Bishop Daniel, Western Eparchy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA; Bishop Irenee, Admistrator of the Archdiocese of Canadian, The Orthodox Church of America. His Eminence Metropolitan Sotirios, Exarch of the Ecumenical Patriarch and the Prime Hierarch of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Canada was present in the altar.

Rt. Rev. Protopresbiter Victor Lakusta, Chancellor of the Presidium of the Consistory of the UOCC, began the program by calling upon Metropolitan Sotirios to bring greetings. His Eminence greeted Metropolitan Yuriy in the name of the Ecumenical Patriarch, Bartholomew I, and highlighted the historical bond and respect that there is between the Patriarchate of Constantinople and Ukrainians. Bishop Irenee greeted His Eminence on behalf of the Archdiocese of Canada, The Orthodox Church in America. He called upon God to bless His Eminence with peace and health in his service to the Church. Other Hierarchs brought their greetings on behalf of the Dioceses.

Various representatives of the Manitoba Government as well as the Federal government, acknowledged how the Grace of the Holy Spirit has guided His Eminence throughout the last 25 years of service. The presenters expressed their gratitude for being part of this celebratory event and remarked how politicians must come together to decide what is best for the country and as such how the Church continues to come together to work for what is best for the faithful. Representatives of various Ukrainian-Canadian organizations offered their greetings as well.

Metropolitan Yuriy then was called forward to offer his words. He thanked the organizing committee and commented on how this event has spiritually affirmed and strengthened him to continue the work that he has been called to do. He thanked God for the strength to serve and for his predecessors who paved the way for him.

May God Grant His Eminence Yuriy, Archbishop of Winnipeg and Central Diocese, Metropolitan of The Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Canada Many Blessed years!