100 Anniversary of St. Volodymyr Ukrainian Catholic parish – Palmerton
by Ihor Stefan Bilynsky
On October 28, 2018, community of the faithful of St. Volodymyr Ukrainian Catholic Church in Palmerton PA celebrated its 100th anniversary. The Liturgy was celebrated by Bishop Andriy Rabiyy, Apostolic Administrator of the Archeparchy of Philadelphia, assisted by Rev. Volodymyr Baran, Pastor of St. Volodymyr parish, Very Rev. John Seniv, Pastor of St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Church in Northampton, PA, Reverend Evhen Moniuk, pastor of St. Nicholas Ukrainian Church in Great Meadows, NJ, Rev. Stepan Hlushak, visiting priest from Ukraine, and Rev. Deacon Michael Waak.
The participation of two choirs enhanced the celebratory spirit of the Liturgy, with the English responses being sung by the St. Mary’s choir from McAdoo, while the Ukrainian responses were sung by the “DZVIN” male choir from Philadelphia.
Bishop Andriy delivered an inspiring homily, reminding all of the perseverance and deep faith of those early immigrants who with very little finances, limited English language skills still managed to grow their faith and also establish a church in this new and exciting land of America. He asked the current parishioners to follow the examples of their ancestors and help grow the religious community of St. Volodymyr’s into the 21st century.
After the liturgy, a banquet was held at the Blue Shamrock Golf Club in Palmerton, PA. The banquet was attended by over one hundred persons including clergy, parishioners and guests.
The festivities began with a prayer and blessing by Bishop Andriy Rabiy. Entertainment at the banquet was provided by virtuoso violinist Innessa Tymochko-Dekajlo. The St. Mary’s choir and Kazka Ukrainian ensemble also entertained the people with folk songs and Ukrainian folk dances. The show was concluded with four Ukrainian songs performed by the male choir “DZVIN”.
Afterwards Father Volodymyr Baran thanked all of the visiting clergy, guests and
parishioners for helping to celebrate the parish’s 100th anniversary, and wished everyone a safe trip home.
