On Sunday – December 1, 2024 - a solemn and joyous day, the faithful of Saint Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral in Silver Spring, Maryland, gathered to commemorate a monumental milestone: the 75th anniversary of their beloved spiritual home. Nestled in the heart of the Metropolitan Washington, DC area, the cathedral stands as a true beacon of faith, hope, and resilience for generations of Ukrainian Orthodox Christians. This historic celebration brought together clergy, parishioners, community leaders, and special guests to honor the enduring legacy of faith and cultural heritage that has flourished within its walls.

His Eminence Metropolitan Antony and Archbishop Daniel, traveling from the Spiritual Center of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA in South Bound Brook, New Jersey, graced the occasion with their presence. Upon entering the sacred temple, they were met with a heartfelt Ukrainian welcome. Children of the parish presented flowers as a symbol of purity and hope, while the parish board president Pani Tamara Woroby offered the traditional Ukrainian bread and salt.

Bread and salt hold profound significance in Ukrainian tradition. The bread, often intricately braided, represents hospitality and abundance, while the salt signifies purity and the enduring covenant of friendship. This ancient custom reflects the deep-rooted spirituality and reverence of the Ukrainian people, a fitting tribute to the sacred space of Saint Andrew Cathedral.

The celebration included special guests, such as Ambassador Oksana Markarova of Ukraine, who addressed the gathering on behalf of the Ukrainian Embassy in Washington, DC. Very Reverend Fr.Volodymyr Steliac, the cathedral’s pastor, extended a warm welcome to all present. He called upon the faithful to offer prayers for the well-being of parishioners, visitors, and the numerous refugees who have found solace and spiritual refuge in the cathedral amidst the ongoing trials of war in Ukraine.

The Divine Liturgy, a central component of the day’s events, resonated with prayerful devotion. The cathedral choir, under the leadership of Alina Stovbun chanted responses to petitions for peace, healing, and the well-being of both the United States and Ukraine. These prayers held particular significance as they reflected the painful reality of the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and the struggles faced by families affected by war.

Deacon Maksym Zhuravchyk led the faithful in petitions for children, parishioners, and visitors, emphasizing the spiritual growth and unity of the parish community.

In his stirring sermon, Archbishop Daniel reflected on the Gospel narrative of the banquet, urging the congregation to accept Christ’s invitation to faith and action. He reminded them of the sacrifices made by their forefathers who, in 1949, responded to God's call by establishing Saint Andrew Cathedral as a haven of faith and culture.

“Let us honor their legacy not just by looking back,” Archbishop Daniel exhorted, “but by actively carrying the torch of faith forward to the next generation. In a world often overshadowed by a culture of death and moral confusion, we are called to be the light, upholding the sanctity of life and the truth of Christ's commandments.”

 Following the Liturgy, the celebration continued with a festive banquet attended by over 350 guests. The cathedral’s children performed a play depicting the creation of the world, danced, and played the violin and bandura, bringing smiles and joy to all in attendance.

His Eminence Metropolitan Antony addressed the gathering, reflecting on the historical significance of preserving Ukrainian Orthodox traditions and faith in the United States.

Metropolitan Antony and Archbishop Daniel also recognized individuals for their outstanding contributions to the parish community. Mr. Marc Sendich received a Certificate of Blessing as the Parishioner of the Year, Mrs. Olga Coffey was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her dedicated service, and Mrs. Tamara Woroby was presented with the Medal of Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Princess Olha, for her unwavering support of the cathedral’s spiritual mission.

As the festivities concluded, the faithful left with prayers on their lips and gratitude in their hearts. Reflecting on Archbishop Daniel’s sermon and the day’s joyous events, they were reminded of the sacred responsibility to preserve and pass on the legacy of Saint Andrew Cathedral.

For 75 years, this cathedral has been a sanctuary of faith, a place where prayers are lifted, traditions are preserved, and the light of Christ shines brightly. As they move forward, the parish community of Saint Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral remains steadfast in their commitment to holiness, unity, and the preservation of their spiritual and cultural heritage.

May the next 75 years bring continued blessings, growth, and unwavering faith to this beloved cathedral and its faithful community. Slava Bohu! Slava Ukraini!