On January 9, the third day of the Christmas feasts, Bishop Mykola Bychok, Eparch of Melbourne, visited the parish of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin in Ardeer.

This is the first official pastoral visit of the Bishop to this Parish. Previously, the Bishop visited all parishes in the state of Victoria, and finally visited Ardeer.

Before the beginning of the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, with bread and salt and great joy, the Bishop was greeted by Fr. Andriy Mykytyuk, Church Administrator, Parish Council and Parishioners. Once again, parishioners had the opportunity to participate in the Hierarch’s Divine Liturgy, which began with the Entrance Prayers and the vesting of the Hierarch.

Read more:

During the sermon, Bishop Mykola emphasized that “Christmas is a time of ardent love, deep faith and endless hope that the Lord brings us. We must make our hearts a manger for the Child of God, warm them with love and mercy for our neighbours and needy. At Christmas we celebrate God’s presence and love in a cruel world. So let us remember that we are not alone in this world – God is with us and will always be with us.”

At the end of the Liturgy, the Bishop congratulated all who bear the name of Mary, Stephen and Stephanie on the day of their angel, as well as Fr. Andrew on the occasion of the 13th anniversary of priestly ordination. Loud “Mnohaya Lita” sounded for all parishioners, Fr. Andrew and Bishop Mykola at the end of the prayer. Before the joint photo, all the faithful, led by Bishop Mykola, sang the song “Paradise has developed”.

Later, all the faithful gathered in the parish hall and had the opportunity to taste a delicious dinner and to talk with their Bishop. During the common meal, everyone sang carols and the youngest parishioners had fun. In conclusion, Fr. Andriy on behalf of the parishioners, presented the Bishop with an “Aussie survival kit”. It was a wonderful and unforgettable Sunday in the parish of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin in Ardeer.