Ukrainian Catholic ChurchAustralia, New Zealand and Oceania
The Parish Feast Day was solemnly celebrated in Ardeer
August 18, 2025
On Sunday, August 17, parishioners and guests gathered in large numbers at the Church of the Dormition of the Mother of God in Ardeer to celebrate the church’s feast day.
The Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was led by His Eminence Mykola Cardinal Bychok, Eparch of Melbourne, and concelebrated by Fr. Ruslan Babii, administrator of the local parish, as well as Protodeacon Edward Kostraby and Deacon Vitalii Leheta.
During his homily, Bishop Mykola reflected on the Gospel passage and drew attention to the importance of faith in human life. The Holy Scriptures show us “how important it is to come to this school of faith, which is the Holy Mother Church.” He emphasised that faith is not something that is acquired once and for all, but a gift that requires constant growth and nourishment, particularly through participation in worship and communal prayer.
“Faith is constantly changing. It is not something we acquire and never lose,” the bishop noted. “Faith depends on the circumstances of our lives, and that is why it is so important to maintain it.” As an example of living faith, the bishop cited the figure of the Gospel father who, without losing hope, sought help for his son. “He exhausted all resources but did not lose faith,” the preacher emphasised. “He constantly tried to find a way out and was strengthened by the faith of others, which ultimately comes from Jesus Christ himself.”
In conclusion, the bishop called on the faithful to renew their faith: “It is important for us today, especially here in Ardeer, in Melbourne, and in Australia, to rediscover our faith—the faith that guides us to the home of our Heavenly Father.” And it is no coincidence, he emphasised, that this celebration was held under the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary, whom the Church calls “the Mother of Faith.”
After the liturgy, the water was blessed and sprinkled on those present. The celebration continued in a warm, family-like atmosphere at the festive table in the Ukrainian Community Hall, where parishioners and guests had the opportunity to chat and share in the joy of the feast.
