The Clergy Conference of the Ukrainian Catholic Church in the U.S.A. October 13–16, 2025 Chicago, Illinois
The clergy from the four eparchies in the United States of America along with their hierarchs attended and participated in the clergy conference. The bishops were Metropolitan-Archbishop Borys Gudziak (Archeparchy of Philadelphia, PA); Bishop Paul Chomnycky (Eparchy of Stamford, CT); Bishop Bohdan Danylo (Eparchy of St. Josaphat in Parma, OH); and the hosting Bishop Venedykt (Benedict) Aleksiychuk (Eparchy of St. Nicholas in Chicago).
Each day of the conference included prayer, common meals, and morning and afternoon sessions. On Monday evening, Metropolitan-Archbishop Borys Gudziak gave the keynote address and welcomed the attending hierarchs and clergy. The theme of the conference was the significance of the first ecumenical council of Nicaea for today and for the future. The Council was held in 325, 1700 years ago.
The first session on Tuesday was a presentation by Rev. Andrij Hlabse, entitled “A Lasting Foundation: The dogmatic and spiritual magnitude of Nicaea.” The truths of the Faith that the holy fathers of the Nicene Council preserved and handed down to us have a special significance and value for us even today.
For example, the Mystery of the Incarnation is being unfolded and revealed to us, God became man. So that man could become like God. We call this process “divinization.” We Christians are being called to be transformed by the Light. Christ is the Light of the world and we are to let our light shine before others through the performance of our good works.
In the session, Rev. Yuriy P. Avvakumov delivered the presentation on Nicaea 325 and its aftermath: Historical and ecclesial aspects. One can not be a Christian unless one views, sees the world in a Nicaean way. God is Love. God the Father sent His Only-Begotten Son into the world to save mankind from sin. And we, the members of the Church, are to show love and concern for others. Having received Christ in the reception of the Holy Eucharist, we are to bring Christ to others and live and encounter others in the spirit of Christ. The Holy Spirit is to guide us to daily Christian life of Love and Truth.
Donna Dobrowolsky, MD in the third session delivered a presentation on “Becoming Human: Insights from Nicaea on Healing the Human Condition”. And in the fifth session, Donna’s presentation was on “Integrating Patristic Passions with Virtue Medicine: Finding Hope and Healing.” Healing and Holiness go together. As Christians we enter into the mystery of Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross.
In the fourth session, Mariya Trakalo delivered a presentation on “The State of Clergy During the War in Ukraine.” There are many people in Ukraine that have experienced and continue to experience trauma. The need for healing is great and in its various forms: physical, spiritual, and mental. In a group discussion, the clergy went into breakout groups to discuss three questions or aspects of trauma and healing. After discussion in small groups, one chosen person who then to report on the knowledge and wisdom shared.
First question: What kind of mental health and spiritual challenges do we priests encounter when accompanying the people. Second question: “How do we priests care for our own mental health. Third question: “What knowledge do we need to get a deeper understanding to better help those who experience trauma and need to be healed.
Many people are coming with different requests — to obtain and maintain the proper documents for their stay, to receive help with basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter, and to find employment for adults and education for children. The clergy are doing their best to assist in every way they can.
At the same time, clergy should maintain a spirit of hope and compassion and not hesitate to seek help from those who already have established means of assistance. They are also encouraged to care for their own well-being through prayer, regular confession, and guidance from a spiritual advisor. Finally, clergy should stay informed about available resources and publications that offer up-to-date information to better support those in need.
On Tuesday evening, the clergy travelled to St. Nicholas Cathedral for the celebration of Divine Liturgy. This was followed by a visit to SS. Volodymyr and Olha Church. On Wednesday evening, the Divine Liturgy was celebrated at St. Joseph the Betrothed Church followed by Dinner and Fellowship.
The Clergy Conference was both informative and an opportunity to socialize with the brother priests, connecting with friends and those we may have met for the first time.
Father D. George Worschak
