The joyful sound of prayers filled the sacred space of St. Vladimir Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral in Parma, Ohio, as clergy, parishioners, students, and families gathered to celebrate a significant milestone in the life of their spiritual home: 100 years of faithful service and dedication to God and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. This centennial celebration, led by His Eminence Metropolitan Antony, began with a special visit of Archbishop Daniel, the spiritual father of the Western Eparchy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA, to the Taras Shevchenko School of Ukrainian Studies an institution deeply intertwined with the cathedral’s history and also celebrating its 100th anniversary.

The event was marked not only by a reflection on the past century but also by a heartfelt acknowledgment of the role that faith, culture, and tradition play in shaping the future of Ukrainian Orthodoxy in the diaspora. Very Rev. Fr. Michael Hontaruk, pastor of St. Vladimir Cathedral, along with the clergy and faithful, joined Vladyka Daniel for the celebration of a Moleben, a service of supplication, to Christ the Savior for the children, teachers, and parents of the school.

The presence of His Eminence Archbishop Daniel underscored the deep spiritual connection between the faithful of St. Vladimir Cathedral and the larger Ukrainian Orthodox Church. His visit to the school was a poignant reminder of the Church’s enduring commitment to fostering faith, education, and the preservation of Ukrainian heritage across generations. In concelebration with Very Rev. Fr. Michael Hontaruk, Very Rev. Fr. Petro Levko of St. George Ukrainian Orthodox Parish in Yardville, NJ, and Protodeacon Ihor Mahlay, alongside Protopresbyter John Nakonachny, Pastor-Emeritus of St. Vladimir, and Deacon Maksym Zhuravchyk of the Three Holy Hierarchs Chapel at St. Sophia Seminary, the archbishop led the prayers, asking Christ to bless and guide the youth, who represent the future of the Church.

The atmosphere in the cathedral was filled with reverence and gratitude, not only for the century of faith and service already completed but also for the generations yet to come. Archbishop Daniel’s words to the children, parents, and teachers were both a spiritual charge and a call to action, encouraging the youth to uphold the rich traditions and cultural expressions of the Ukrainian Orthodox faith. He reminded the faithful that, while the world around them may change, the unshakeable foundation of their spiritual life - rooted in Christ and upheld by the Church - remains a source of strength and guidance.

Archbishop Daniel offered special prayers for the men and women of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, particularly the chaplains and clergy who minister to them in these trying times. The congregation joined in fervent prayer for Ukraine’s defenders, acknowledging the sacrifices they continue to make in the ongoing conflict to protect their homeland. These prayers served as a poignant reminder of the deep connection between the Ukrainian diaspora and their brothers and sisters in Ukraine, bound together by faith, heritage, and a shared hope for peace.

The archbishop’s heartfelt words extended to the clergy, who serve both in Ukraine and abroad, offering spiritual guidance to those in need. His recognition of the chaplains in Ukraine, particularly those who minister to the military, resonated deeply with the congregation, many of whom have loved ones affected by the war. These chaplains, representing the spiritual backbone of the military, bring hope and the light of Christ to those serving on the front lines, providing essential spiritual care in the midst of great adversity.

As part of the centennial celebration, Archbishop Daniel took time to thank the principal of the Taras Shevchenko School, Pani Halyna Yarema, and the dedicated teachers for their leadership and educational efforts. The school, an integral part of St. Vladimir Cathedral’s mission, has been a beacon of light in the community, fostering not only academic excellence but also a deep love for the Ukrainian language, culture, and Orthodox faith.

The archbishop emphasized the importance of nurturing the spiritual and cultural heritage of the younger generation, who are the torchbearers of Ukrainian Orthodox tradition in the diaspora. His words echoed the Church’s long-standing commitment to ensuring that Ukrainian children grow up with a strong sense of identity, faith, and belonging. The celebration of 100 years is a testament to the hard work and dedication of countless teachers, clergy, and families who have made the school a cornerstone of the community.

At the conclusion of the service, as a gesture of love and spiritual protection, Archbishop Daniel presented the children, teachers, and parents with holy cards bearing the image of the Protection of the Mother of God. This sacred icon, known as “Pokrova,” holds a special place in the hearts of Ukrainian Orthodox Christians, symbolizing the intercession of the Mother of God over the Ukrainian people throughout their history. The icon serves as a reminder that no matter the challenges they face, they are always under the loving care and protection of the Theotokos.

May St. Vladimir Cathedral and the Taras Shevchenko School continue to be blessed as they faithfully serve their community and preserve the rich spiritual heritage of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church for generations to come.