Melbourne commemorates the 25th anniversary of the passing of Bishop Ivan Prasko

The Divine Liturgy was presided over by Bishop Mykola Cardinal Bychok, Eparch of Melbourne, concelebrating with the clergy of the Cathedral and the Parish of the Dormition of the Most Holy Mother of God in Ardeer. A large number of faithful gathered to pray for the repose of the bishop, who played a key role in the establishment and development of Ukrainian church life in Australia. Among those present were members of Plast and CYM, who paid tribute to the late bishop by attending in their uniforms.

The homily was delivered by Fr Simon Ckuj, Protoshyncellus of the Melbourne Eparchy, who shared his memories of Bishop Ivan Prasko. In his remarks, Fr Simon recalled personal encounters with the bishop, his pastoral attentiveness to people, his simplicity in communication, and his consistent dedication to serving the Church and the Ukrainian community in the diaspora.

Bishop Ivan Prasko led the Melbourne Eparchy for many years, dedicating his efforts to the organisation of parish life and the formation of clergy. He also worked to preserve the church identity of Ukrainians far from their homeland. His ministry left a lasting mark on the life of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church in Australia.

The Requiem service provided an opportunity for communal prayer and grateful remembrance of the bishop, whose legacy continues to be an important part of the history of the Melbourne Eparchy. Following the service, attendees had the opportunity to gather and remember Bishop Ivan Prasko during a reception prepared by the parishioners of the Cathedral.

See also

January 27 Cardinal Mykola Bychok Participated in Annual Red Mass in Melbourne January 27 Homily by His Eminence Mykola Cardinal Bychok for the Red Mass — Opening of the Legal Year 2026 January 15 “May this place become holy ground, where heaven and earth meet, and where the Church is continually upheld by prayer”