Philadelphia Archeparchy Celebrates Annual Catechist Day

September 21, 2026

On September 19, 2026, the annual Catechist Day was held at the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Philadelphia, bringing together catechists, clergy, religious, and guests from various parishes of the Philadelphia Archeparchy.

The day began with the Divine Liturgy, during which prayers were offered for all those engaged in the catechetical ministry of the Church. The Liturgy was presided over by Metropolitan-designate Bishop Michael Kwiatkowski, Chair of the Patriarchal Catechetical Commission of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, with Metropolitan Archbishop Borys Gudziak concelebrating.

In his homily, Archbishop-designate Michael emphasized: “Prepare well, week by week, for this ministry — and do not be afraid of your own limits. You are not asked to be brilliant. Like the readings we have just heard, you are asked only to be faithful, present, and full of love for the people in front of you, trusting that Christ — who did not shy away from the weakness of the Cross, and who is our Pascha — will do the rest.”

Following the Divine Liturgy, a special moment in the program took place: for the first time, a graduate from the Philadelphia Archeparchy was recognized for successfully completing her studies at the Catechetical-Pedagogical Institute of the Ukrainian Catholic University and receiving her diploma. Afterward, all catechists and guests present received a blessing from Metropolitan Borys Gudziak and Metropolitan-designate Michael Kwiatkowski for the new academic year and for their continued ministry in the parishes and communities of the Archeparchy.

Following a shared lunch in the cathedral hall, the formation portion of the program began. Metropolitan Borys Gudziak addressed the participants with opening remarks, welcoming the catechists, thanking them for their presence and service, and emphasizing the importance of ongoing formation, witness to the faith, and responsible catechetical ministry.

The main formation lecture of the day was delivered by Very Rev. Mitred Archpriest Dr. Mark M. Morozowich. His presentation was entitled “Confession: An Encounter with Our Merciful Father.” In his lecture, Fr. Mark reflected on the Mystery of Repentance as a privileged place of encounter between the human person and God’s mercy, its biblical roots, as well as on its importance for the spiritual life and pastoral ministry of the Church.

Archbishop-designate Michael Kwiatkowski then addressed the participants in his capacity as Chair of the Patriarchal Catechetical Commission of the UGCC, speaking about the work and current initiatives of the Patriarchal Catechetical Commission.

Mr. Nazar Duda, Director of the Catechetical-Pedagogical Institute of the Ukrainian Catholic University and Deputy Chair of the Patriarchal Catechetical Commission, also addressed the participants. He spoke about the work of the Catechetical-Pedagogical Institute of UCU, available resources, catechetical formation opportunities, and future cooperation between the Institute and catechetical ministries in North America.

In conclusion, Fr. Mykola Dziurakh, Co-Director of the Religious Education Ministry of the Philadelphia Archeparchy, thanked the speakers, clergy, religious, catechists, organizers, and all participants, and invited everyone to take part in upcoming formation programs and events throughout the new year.