“Anchored in Hope”: 2025 Reporting & Giving Soirée Held in Whippany
On October 11, 2025, the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia hosted its Reporting & Giving Soirée – Anchored in Hope at the Ukrainian American Cultural Center of New Jersey in Whippany. The evening brought together clergy, religious, benefactors, and friends from across the region to celebrate the Church’s mission, reflect on the blessings of the past year, and support ongoing initiatives that bring healing and hope to communities in the United States and Ukraine.
Highlights of the soirée included Metropolitan Borys Gudziak’s keynote, the spirited live and silent auctions, and a remarkable display of sacred and contemporary art donated by ICONART Contemporary Sacred Art Gallery (Lviv, Ukraine), Mykhailo Danylovych, and Olena Labunka.
This year, nearly 160 guests gathered for an evening of joyful fellowship and reflection on the Archeparchy’s mission.
In his keynote address, Metropolitan Archbishop Borys Gudziak reflected on the power of Christian hope amid global challenges. “Our Church is at the epicenter of global change because of a brutal genocidal war. But we Christians are called to live with hope. And it is when we are together, when we support each other, that we gain a strength that cannot be defeated. So I want to ask all of us to work together this evening for that encounter — for this strengthening.”
Thanks to the commitment and support of those who donated, the soirée raised $65,690, with donations still being received. All proceeds will benefit the New Priests and Personnel Fund, which supports pastoral initiatives and clergy formation throughout the Archeparchy. Funds were raised through individual donations, silent and live auctions, a 50/50 raffle, and sponsorship contributions.
Many parishes and some organizations supported the event. The Archeparchy extends special gratitude to its Silver Sponsor, the Ukrainian National Association, Inc., and to all benefactors whose contributions made the event possible.
The evening was emceed by Fr. Volodymyr Radko and featured a joyful performance by Philadelphia Funk Authority, complemented by exquisite catering from The Choice Restaurant.
