Pastoral visit to Darwin

The visit began on Friday evening with a prayer for the victims of the Holodomor. The faithful gathered for the Divine Liturgy, led by Fr. Ihor. During the service, a memorial was held for the victims of the Holodomor in Ukraine and for Ukrainian soldiers who have given their lives defending their homeland in the ongoing war.

On the following day, a Christmas gathering brought together Ukrainians in Darwin and members of the wider community, including local Australians. A highlight of the celebration was the arrival of St. Nicholas, eagerly awaited by the children. Fr. Ihor spoke about the life of St. Nicholas, emphasizing his example of mercy and inspiring everyone to follow in his footsteps through acts of kindness.

During the gathering, Fr. Ihor shared updates on the life of the Ukrainian Catholic Church. He particularly highlighted a significant event for the global Catholic Church—the nomination of Bishop Mykola Bychok, Eparch of Melbourne, to the rank of cardinal.

The faithful in Darwin expressed heartfelt gratitude to Bishop Mykola for his continual care for their community. They especially commended the efforts of the eparchy to provide spiritual support, even in Australia’s smallest communities. Thanks to this commitment, priests are able to travel to remote regions to serve the faithful and nurture their faith.

The Darwin Mission remains a vibrant centre of Ukrainian spirituality, helping Ukrainians maintain their faith and traditions, even far from their homeland.

See also

October 30 Bishop Mykola Bychok participated in the annual blessing of fleet in Fremantle October 12 Homily by Fr. Ihor Holovko on the Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost September 27 A charity evening was held in Perth to support Ukrainian defenders