History
The Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Parish was established in Vancouver, on May 9, 1937. The first Holy Liturgy was held on July 18, 1937 at the Ukrainian National Home.
The following year, a fund was established for the building of a church. This was the pre-eminent goal of the Parish members over the following decade. In fact, they were greatly challenged by the intervention of World War II, Federal Government statutes and policies, and the sheer size of the project they had undertaken. Nevertheless, through the deep commitment and perseverance of a small group of members, the structure was built according to the design of architect Professor Serhyj Tymoshenko and the building project progressed. The Cross for the main cupola was blessed by Rev. Stephen Symchych on September 11, 1949.
At Easter in 1950, the first Divine Liturgy was served in the newly-built, but as yet unfinished, church. This event represented an auspicious achievement. In the ensuing years, through much hard work and direct financial contributions by the members, along with fundraising projects, the church was eventually completed and decorated according to the Orthodox tradition.
In 1970, the parish commenced planning and fundraising for another major project, the building of an auditorium and mezzanine immediately adjacent to the church property. The Ukrainian Orthodox Auditorium was officially opened on June 17, 1973.
In December 1977, the Vancouver City Council designated the church as an architectural Heritage Building and an engraved plaque was placed on the exterior of the church building. In 1975, the church was designated as a Sobor by Rt. Rev. Archbishop Andrew on behalf of the Ukrainian Greek-Orthodox Church of Canada,(renamed Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada (UOCC) by an Act of Parliament in 1990). In 1983, the Sobor status was raised further and our church received the designation of a Cathedral. Since its first Liturgy, the Parish has been served by fourteen (14) priests, in addition to receiving visitations from Bishops, Archbishops and Metropolitans of the UOCC.
The Church Elders and Sisterhood have played and continue to play a prominent role in the care and maintenance of the church, along with their principal role of assisting with the conduct of church services. Altar boys have also received special instruction regarding their role during the Liturgy and other services; they continue to serve in this important capacity.
Read more about this topic: Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral (Vancouver)
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