Women's Evening of Prayer in Perth Amboy

On May 27, 2025, the parish community of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, became the setting for a special gathering of prayer, spiritual joy, and women’s fellowship. Organized by the St. Ann Society, the Ladies’ Prayer Night was an evening of devotion dedicated to the Blessed Mother.

Women from surrounding communities joined parishioners to pray together to the Heavenly Mother. The evening began with a warm welcome for Archbishop Borys Gudziak, Metropolitan-Archbishop of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia, who was greeted traditionally—with bread, salt, and flowers.

The Moleben to the Blessed Mother of God, offered in both Ukrainian and English, was led by Sisters Veronica, Svitanku, and Trijtsi of the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matará. Their heartfelt singing became a prayer in itself, touching the hearts of all present.

In his homily, Archbishop Borys shared a personal testimony about the presence of the Mother of God in his life and the lives of all the faithful. “The Blessed Mother always desires to be close to us, to accompany us in prayer, and to lead us through her maternal intercession and love,” he said.

The combined singing of the Marian hymns "Immaculate Mary" and "O Spomahay Nas" became a beautiful symbol of the richness and unity of the Catholic Church—diverse in language, yet one in faith.

After the service, Rev. Ivan Turyk, pastor of the parish and spiritual advisor to the St. Ann Society, invited all attendees to a reception in the parish hall. Thanks to the efforts of Mrs. Melanie Fedynyshyn, president of the Society, and dedicated parish women, guests were welcomed with delicious food, a warm atmosphere, and heartfelt conversation.