PATRONAL FEAST CELEBRATED IN ALMATY

On October 30, the Greek Catholic parish in Almaty solemnly celebrated its patronal feast on the commemoration of Blessed Hieromartyr Oleksii Zarytskyi, one of the heavenly patrons of the Catholic Church in Kazakhstan.

For this special occasion, priests of the Apostolic Administration for Catholics of the Byzantine Rite in Kazakhstan and Central Asia gathered in Almaty, led by the Apostolic Administrator, Mitred Archpriest Vasyl Hovera. They came to share the joy of the celebration with the parish priest, Fr. Oleh Halushka, and the local faithful.

The solemn Divine Liturgy of the Byzantine Rite was celebrated at the Roman Catholic Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity in Almaty, where the Greek Catholic community regularly gathers for worship. Among those present were Bishop José Luis Mumbiela Sierra, Ordinary of the Diocese of the Most Holy Trinity in Almaty, as well as priests of the Latin Rite. Following the Divine Liturgy, the rite of blessing of water was celebrated.

This year, the parish priest, Fr. Oleh Halushka, and his wife Myroslava are celebrating their silver wedding anniversary, marking 25 years of married life. On this joyful occasion, a special rite of blessing of the couple and renewal of their marriage vows took place after the Liturgy. In recognition of their many years of dedicated service to the Church, the couple also received a special certificate of appreciation from the Apostolic Administration.

Addressing the Greek Catholic community, Bishop José Luis emphasized that Blessed Hieromartyr Oleksii Zarytskyi holds a special place in the hearts not only of Byzantine Catholics but also of the faithful of the Latin tradition. During the years of persecution, when there was a severe shortage of priests, Fr. Oleksii devoted himself to serving all Catholics, regardless of their liturgical tradition. His life and martyrdom remain a powerful testimony to the unity of the Catholic Church and fidelity to Christ.

The celebration concluded with a festive dinner lovingly prepared by the parishioners.

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