Holy Wisdom Parish Reaches Out

On July 13, 2009, as part of its outreach program to introduce our Ukrainian Catholic Church and its Tradition to others, members of Holy Wisdom Mission in Citrus Heights, California, visited St Margaret Mary Parish in Oakland, California.

After a two-hour drive in a rented van, parishioners and pastor Fr. Theodore Wroblicky, as well as St. Margaret Mary pastor Fr. Stanislaw Zak, celebrated the Divine Liturgy in English with approximately 100 plus guests who were celebrating the 92nd anniversary of the apparition of Our Lady of Fatima. Led by Cantor George Kostyrko and Holy Wisdom parishioners, all sang the liturgical responses with great enthusiasm. During the homily, they listened attentively to Fr. Theodore's words on Orientale Lumen, an Apostolic Letter written by Pope John Paul II, and the deep relationship that exists between the traditions of the East and West.

After the Divine Liturgy, a reception was held in the parish hall, followed by a discussion period. Attendees were very interested in our Church and its traditions and asked many thoughtful questions. Although Holy Wisdom parishioners did not get back to the Sacramento area until 1 a.m., all agreed that it was a very satisfying and edifying evening!

Many thanks are extended to our host, Fr. Stanislaw Zak.