On Saturday, November 7, His Eminence Metropolitan Ilarion attended a festive Gala Banquet marking the 80th anniversary of Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

The celebration began with ‘Отче Наш’ sung by the Cathedral Choir under the direction of Dr. Jeff Saranchuk, and blessing by His Eminence.

The evening was held in a warm and uplifting atmosphere. The event was hosted by Keith Swinton, parish member and Principal of St. Andrew’s College, who guided the program and introduced the evening’s participants.

During the dinner, His Eminence offered congratulatory remarks asking God to continue to bless the Cathedral parish and the important work being done to care for the spiritual needs of the faithful members and supporters. Greetings were delivered by government representatives. Rachelle Schott, Member of the Manitoba Legislative Assembly, conveyed greetings on behalf of the Office of the Premier of Manitoba. The Honourable Kevin Lamoureaux, Member of Parliament, also extended his congratulations on the occasion of the anniversary.

The program was enriched by the keynote speaker Dr. Jeff Saranchuk who shared a meaningful reflection on the importance of the Holy Orthodox faith, its mission in guiding and providing purpose and hope for peoples’ lives. He emphasized that Holy Trinity Cathedral is a place where people can learn and experience this spiritual legacy. Parish Council President Shelley Kowalchuk, then offered her gratitude to all who helped organize the various events over the year, culminating with the Gala Banquet. She then invited all in attendance to listen to a recording of the Nativity program from 1952. It highlighted the Cathedral Choir under the direction of Walter Bohonos and then a Nativity Greeting by His Beatitude, Metropolitan Ilarion (Ohienko).

Further entertainment was provided by the Rozmai Ukrainian Dancers – Pryvit & Debrychyna Duet, whose performances added a vibrant artistic touch to the celebration.

One of the most moving moments of the evening was a video presentation highlighting the history of the building of the Cathedral. Archival footage brought the past to life, taking those in attendance back to the beginnings of its history.

The conclusion of the evening carried a particularly profound spiritual meaning. Mitred Archpriest Eugene Maximiuk concluded the evening by offering words of gratitude for all who were part of the foundation of the Cathedral. He thanked all who are part of the present life of the Cathedral and called upon the faithful to continue preserving their faith and the spiritual heritage of the Church, going into the future of the Cathedral. He also welcomed the ‘Newcomers’ to Holy Trinity Cathedral, letting them know that they are not guests at the Cathedral, but that this is their ‘home’ and they are welcomed and valued.

The celebration concluded with the closing prayer and then blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Ilarion, who conveyed prayers for God’s continued protection and blessings upon the parishioners and the entire Ukrainian community. Mnohaya Lita was sung by all gathered.

Eighty years in the history of Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral represent a legacy of faith, prayer, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to Ukrainian spiritual and cultural heritage. This anniversary honoured those who laid the foundations of the Metropolitan Cathedral, expresses gratitude to those who built, nurtured, and preserved this sacred place, and reminds the present generation of its responsibility to pass this invaluable spiritual heritage on to future generations.

Please see photos below: