Hierarchical Divine Liturgy and Patriarchal Lunch with His Beatitude Sviatoslav and Permanent Synod, December 7

7 October 2025

Glory to Jesus Christ!

Reverend Fathers and Deacons, Sisters,

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

It is with great joy that I announce that from December 4^th to 14^th, 2025, the Eparchy of Sts. Peter and Paul of Melbourne will have the honour of hosting the Permanent Synod of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. For the first time in the history of our community in Australia, such an important event will take place.

The Permanent Synod of the UGCC is an advisory body to the Father and Head of the Church. It consists of His Beatitude Patriarch Sviatoslav, who presides over it, and four bishops appointed for a five-year term.

The Permanent Synod meets at least twice a year in various eparchies and exarchates of the UGCC around the world. An important part of these meetings is the opportunity to meet with the local bishop, clergy, religious, and faithful.

Eleven years have passed since we last had the blessed opportunity to welcome Patriarch Sviatoslav to our eparchy. Now, His Beatitude will visit Australia once more.

I cordially invite you to participate in the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, which will be celebrated by His Beatitude Sviatoslav on Sunday, December 7^th, at 10:00 a.m. at our Cathedral of Sts. Peter and Paul in Melbourne.

Following the Liturgy, at 1:00 p.m., a Patriarchal Lunch will be held at Melrose Events (2 Carrick Dr, Tullamarine VIC 3043). The funds raised will be used to support the initiatives of the Patriarchal Foundation “Mudra Sprava” (Wise Deed). Tickets for lunch can be purchased via Trybooking.

In this Jubilee Year of Hope, I encourage you to come to Melbourne in large numbers for this celebration. Together, we will welcome our dear guests, listen to their words, and offer a joint prayer for the future of our Church and our people, especially during this challenging time for Ukraine. Since the Cathedral of Sts. Peter and Paul has been designated a pilgrimage church for 2025; this occasion will also be an opportunity to make our Jubilee pilgrimage and receive a full Jubilee indulgence.

I encourage Parish Administrators to organise groups of faithful so that each parish can be represented at this unique event. Do not miss this exceptional opportunity to pray together with the Patriarch and the Permanent Synod of the UGCC.

This event is a chance to present the life of our Australian-Ukrainian community within the context of the global Church, to demonstrate our faithfulness and unity, to receive spiritual encouragement, and to be inspired by the example of our bishops. It is also an opportunity for clergy, laity, youth, and families to feel that we are part of the larger family of the UGCC, which is spread across the world but united by one faith and mission.

The blessing of the Lord be upon you!

† Mykola Cardinal Bychok
Eparch of Sts. Peter and Paul of Melbourne