Ukrainian Catholic ChurchAustralia, New Zealand and Oceania
Father Ihor Holovko visited parishioners in the northern part of Western Australia
July 14, 2023
Father Ihor Holovko, parish priest of St. John the Baptist Church in Perth, has concluded his pastoral visit to the northern region of Western Australia, which lasted for the past five days — from July 10th to 14th.
During his visit, Father Ihor managed to meet with the faithful and visit Father Steve Casey, a priest of the Roman Catholic parish in Dongara, and other Roman Catholic parishes in the cities of Geraldton, Onslow, Exmouth, and Carnarvon. Such pastoral visits typically take place once or twice a year. The priest had the opportunity to connect with Ukrainian families, bless their homes, and listen to their needs.
The families visited by Father Ihor expressed their gratitude, as they only have the chance to see a Ukrainian priest once a year during these pastoral visits. This provides them with spiritual support and strengthens their connection with the Church.
Maintaining a close relationship with all parishioners is of utmost importance to Father Ihor. Therefore, he regularly strives to visit every parishioner or family living in the most remote corners of Western Australia. “This is part of my mission, to which Christ has called me,” commented Father Ihor. “By carrying out the Lord’s work, a priest builds and develops the Church. I believe that through my pastoral work, I not only help people but also contribute to the growth of the Church community, following the words of Jesus Christ: ‘Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.’ So, I am convinced that in my pastoral work, I am not alone, but I have God’s grace and the support of Jesus Christ in my mission of serving others in need.”
Upon concluding his visit, Father Ihor Holovko expressed his gratitude to the Ukrainians and Roman Catholic bishops and clergy for their warm reception, sincerity, and support in mission and pastoral activities.
By the way, the Melbourne Eparchy faithfully follows the slogan of the Patriarchal Synod of 2020, “Emigration, Settlement, and Global Unity of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church,” which states, “The Church is always and everywhere with you.”
