Lenten Retreats took place at our Immaculate Conception Parish. The theme of the spiritual talks was inspired by the words of Christ: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life” (John 14:6).
The retreat was led by Fr. Dr. Andriy Tanasiychuk, a professor and doctor of canon law. He came from Kolomyia, where he serves as the pastor of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in the Kolomyia Eparchy of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church.
During his talks, Fr. Andriy emphasized the importance of the Church as a place for a personal encounter with the living Christ. He noted that we often know much about God but do not truly know Him personally. The retreat became an opportunity for participants to reflect on their relationship with the Lord and renew it through repentance, prayer, and listening to God’s Word.
A special moment of the retreat was the final day, which coincided with the Sunday of Orthodoxy. After the Divine Liturgy, a blessing of icons and all those present took place as a reminder that each of us is a living icon of God, created in His image and likeness.
At the conclusion of the retreat, Fr. Roman Bobesiuk sincerely thanked Fr. Andriy for his profound spiritual talks and for sowing the Word of God, which inspired parishioners to deepen their faith. The celebration ended with the singing of “Mnohaya Lita” and a blessing given by Fr. Andriy.
After the Liturgy, Fr. Andriy also addressed the parents of the students from St. Olga’s Ukrainian School. He stressed the importance of nurturing the Ukrainian language, culture, and traditions in families. He also emphasized that the Church plays a vital role in forming conscious and spiritually mature individuals. The Church helps children to know Christ, teaches them to love God, and strengthens their connection to their heritage.
These retreats became a time of grace, spiritual renewal, and growth in faith for the parishioners. May the Word of God that was sown bear abundant fruit in the hearts of all who took part in this spiritual event.
