Holy Eucharist Parish

Holy Cross Mission is presenting a Lenten Retreat on the Book of Revelation with Fr. Thomas Hopko, Dean Emeritus of St. Vladimir’s Seminary (New York), on March 9-11. Fr. Thomas was the author of many, many books and articles that were used in my theological formation at the Sheptytsky Institute in Ottawa. I consider this opportunity to hear him in person a direct bestowal of God’s favour on us all in Winnipeg. In other words, we cannot afford to miss this event! For more information, visit the Holy Cross Mission website and view the advertisement. The schedule of events is located here. Holy Cross Mission is part of the Ukrainian Orthodox Diocese of Canada.

We will celebrate Forgiveness Vespers this Sunday evening beginning at 7:00 pm. It is the official start of the 40 day Fast. One of the most beautiful moments of this service comes near the end - the mutual forgiveness. I first experienced this while at a monastery in California in 1992. The priest kneels facing the faithful and asks forgiveness of all his sins done knowingly or unknowingly throughout his life. And the people respond, “God forgives!” The faithful likewise kneel and ask together for the forgiveness of their sins. And finally, each comes before the priest, and the same act of mutual forgiveness occurs. And then we ask of each other, individually. As this is happening, the Paschal Canon (that which is sung at Matins on PASCHA) is sung quietly by others. It reminds me that it is the Resurrection of our Lord that at once draws me and at the same time pushes me toward Him. I invite you all to participate in this most humbling and glorious service, and thus enter the Great Fast with a light and joyful step.

A pysanky (decorative Ukrainian Easter egg) workshop will be conducted in the church auditorium from 6:30-8:00 pm on Tuesday, March 6, Thursday, March 8, and Tuesday, March 13. Classes limited to 20 students, six years and older. Five year olds will be accepted if they are supervised by an adult. This workshop is open to all children of the parish, parents and grandparents are most welcome also. Please bring two or three eggs ONLY. Registration will take place at the catechism classess on Sunday, February 18 or you can contact Rose Swiecicki at 663-6513.