Book on Patriarch Josyf Slipyj Presented in Philadelphia

The event opened with welcoming remarks by Olena Labunka, a member of the library board, who reflected on the significance of the gathering:
“These days, as we mark the 80th anniversary of the arrest and imprisonment of Patriarch Josyf Slipyj, each of us is searching for an answer to a question—existential for some, rhetorical for others: in these terrifying times, how can we live, believe, and carry on? Is it even possible to live victoriously?”

The conversation partner for Metropolitan Borys was historian Andriy Zhyvachivsky, who guided the discussion with a blend of humor and depth. His thoughtful questions helped the audience explore the Metropolitan’s personal memories of the Patriarch and the lasting influence of his legacy.

“The course of my life was shaped by the figure of Patriarch Slipyj—his focus on education, and on the Church’s role in the life of the people,” Metropolitan Borys shared. “Why was he so compelling? Because he was a universal figure—not a Ukrainian confined to a small bubble, but a man who embodied universal values.”

Describing Slipyj as a legendary personality, Metropolitan Borys noted the profound effect he had on those around him:
“Wherever he went, all eyes were drawn to him. He faced one of the greatest challenges of the 20th century—the totalitarian effort to destroy the human person and turn them into homo sovieticus. By human standards, he had no chance. And yet, he triumphed—because God was at work in his life. That’s the core message of this book.”

Metropolitan Borys also spoke about the importance of personal encounter in both Slipyj’s ministry and his own:
“Christianity is an invitation to relationship, because we believe in a God who is Three Persons. Our very being longs for personal connection. The heart of the Patriarch’s journeys was his desire to be with his people—to reach out, to listen, to understand.”

The discussion also touched on Slipyj’s harrowing years in Soviet labor camps and his unwavering drive to build and lead in the face of immense hardship.

To Live Victoriously is available through the Archeparchy’s official store, Byzantine Church Supplies