On November 9, the Ukrainian community in Iceland, along with the Catholic community of Reykjavík, celebrated the third anniversary of the pastoral care for the faithful of the Byzantine Rite. This initiative was launched with the blessing of Bishop Bohdan Dzyurakh, the Apostolic Exarch for Germany and Scandinavia.
This information was shared by the press service of the UGCC in Iceland.
On November 9, 2022, Redemptorist Fr. Mykhailo Ivaniak arrived in Iceland to serve Ukrainian believers who had to leave their homeland due to the war.
Catholic Bishop Dávid Tencer of Iceland, Ordinary of the Diocese of Reykjavik, provided significant support for the presence and ministry of the UGCC on the island. He joined the priest and the Ukrainian community in prayer. During the service, they expressed gratitude to God and to kind individuals for the opportunity to pray together during Ukraine’s ongoing struggles due to the war.
In his sermon, Bishop Dávid addressed the Ukrainians, offering words of support and deep respect for their unwavering faith in a foreign land.
“I understand that many of you would not have left Ukraine if it weren't for the war. Unfortunately, this is our reality. The Church may not have the power to end this terrible situation, but it can and must care for those who are facing difficulties,” the bishop said.
He thanked Bishop Bohdan Dzyurakh for his initiative in sending a priest to Iceland and expressed his gratitude to Father Mykhailo Ivaniak for his dedicated and fruitful service.
Comparing the experiences of Ukrainians to those of the first Christians, who were scattered around the world due to persecution, the bishop stressed that forced exile can also serve a purpose.
"You are not just here as refugees. You are Christians who bear witness to your faith in a new land. Continue to fulfill this important mission," Bishop Dávid urged the Ukrainians.
In conclusion, the worshippers prayed for peace in Ukraine and for all those suffering because of the war, thanking God for three years of shared prayer, support, and spiritual unity in this distant northern land.