On Sunday, May 7, 2023 His Eminence Metropolitan Ilarion led the community of St. George’s in St. Catharines, ON in marking this milestone in the life of the parish. His Eminence was joined by His Grace, Bishop Andriy, Rt. Rev. Mitred-Archpriest Gregory Mielnik (Parish Rector), local clergy, parish faithful and guests.

At the conclusion of the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy a Moleben of Thanksgiving was served, offering heart-felt thanks and supplication for the bounties the parish community has received over the past 75th years.

During festal dinner offered in the parish hall, His Eminence underlined the importance of building a community centered in Christ working together for a singular common goal. By the example of the beautiful temple, the faithful he encountered, and the leadership offered by the parish clergy this common Christ centered labour is self-evident.

In Fr. Gregory’s closing remarks, he spoke about the humble beginnings of this parish, beginning in a converted room “chapel” above Martiniuk’s Bakery which was down the street from the current temple, being initially served by then Fr. Wasyly Fedak (later Metropolitan Wasyly of blessed memory). To the building of the parish hall which housed a permanent chapel, to the eventual building of a permanent church and the adornments inside. The progress of the parish is due to the building up and strengthening of the community of St. George’s and how today we are the inheritors of this legacy and it is up to each and every one of us to continue the labours of our pioneers.