Bishop Andriy Rabiy was greeted in the traditional Ukrainian custom with bread and salt, and words of welcome offered by four members of the SBA Ukrainian Society and the six Senior Student Council members. They represented the entire Saint Basil Academy community, with principal Connie D’Angelo at the helm, who were very excited to share part of their day with one of the important shepherds of the Ukrainian Catholic Church in the United States.
In every class that Bishop Andriy visited, he was greeted with the traditional “Slava Isusu Khrystu” (Glory to Jesus Christ). The bishop took the time to share in conversation with the students, asking them about their classes and topics of study, seeking input about curriculum, extra-curricular activities, and school life, and sharing his own insights with the students. Students were pleased to share thoughts about their studies of theology, AP US History, the Latin language – along with singing a chant and reciting Ave Maria – and explaining the paintings they were creating in their Art Class. In the Physics lab, Bishop Andriy observed the large collection of instruments and items used in the lab component of the study of physics.
The last stop of the tour was the beautifully serene Chapel at the Academy, which is enveloped by icons that draw in the person seeking spiritual respite. Msgr. Waslo, Sister Dorothy Ann and Mrs. D’Angelo had the opportunity to share with the bishop the spiritual experiences that are organized for the entire Saint Basil community, from the induction of the new faculty to the retreats that each class encounters yearly.
Bishop Andriy even had the opportunity to visit the cafeteria and note the camaraderie among the students as they relax in each other’s company with a good lunch. In essence, the morning was an excellent opportunity for the students of Saint Basil Academy to share with the bishop what makes the Academy a unique environment, one that many students consider their “home away from home.” As Bishop Andriy was leaving, he was introduced to the “Pillars of Success” photographic exhibit, an effective visual representation of all the of SBA alumnae who go out into the world to do wonderful things. Bishop Andriy’s blessing and good wishes for success in school and their lives left the students with affirmation of all of their everyday efforts.
Next on the agenda was a guided tour of Manor College. Beginning in the Ukrainian Heritage Study Center Christine Prokopovich, Curator of the Center, provided a guided tour of the various displays and artifacts. Next, Allison Mootz, the Dean of Students, led the Bishop on a tour of the Academic Building and the Basiliad, which houses the library and administrative offices.
After lunch at the Motherhouse, the tour continued with the Basilian Legacy Room of the Sisters and the Basilian Spirituality Center. All were deeply touched by the affability of the Bishop.
Photo: Maureen Ryan
