Ukrainian Catholic ChurchAustralia, New Zealand and Oceania
“The Blessed Mother will never abandon our nation”, Bishop Mykola in Geelong
October 15, 2023
On Sunday, October 15th, the Parish of the Protection of the Mother of God in Geelong celebrated its parish feast. The celebration was attended by many parishioners and guests from other parishes, as well as the Sisters of St. Basil the Great from Melbourne.
The festive day commenced with the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy presided over by Bishop Mykola Bychok, Eparch of Melbourne, in concelebration with Father Yurii Tychenok, the administrator of the Protection of the Mother of God Church in Geelong, Father Stefan Sapun, the administrator of the Protection of the Mother of God Church in Brisbane, and Deacon Michael Zylan, the Chancellor of the Eparchy.
During his homily, Bishop Mykola said, “In these days, when Ukraine faces great trials associated with the full-scale military aggression of Russia and the occupation of parts of our land, we once again turn to the intercession to Mother of God, entrusting the Ukrainian military under the invincible Protection of our Heavenly Intercessor.” The Bishop assured that the deep devotion of our people to the Holy Mother of God, as their Protectress and Intercessor, is the best guarantee that the Blessed Mother will never abandon our nation. He concluded by saying, “Therefore, let us call upon her today: ‘Remember us, Sovereign Lady, Virgin Mother of God, in your prayers, so that we do not perish due to our great sins. Protect us from all evil and grievous calamities, for we place our hope in you and, honoring the feast of your Protection, we glorify you.’”
After the Liturgy, Father Yurii Tychenok, the administrator of the Protection of the Mother of God Church in Geelong, expressed sincere gratitude to Bishop Mykola, Father Stefan, Deacon Michael, the Basilian Sisters, and all those present for their visit and prayerful support.
The celebration continued in the parish hall of Blessed Mykola Charnetsky with a festive meal. This day was a special celebration of faith and community for the parishioners of the Protection of the Mother of God in Geelong.
