Some 400 people participated in the pilgrimage to the Vyshhorod Blessed Mother

The annual two-day pilgrimage to the UGCC Church of the Vyshhorod Mother of God of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church (Kyiv region) took place on May 18-19, 2013 and included some 400 people, stated Rev. Taras Valakh, the church administrator.

The thirty-kilometer pilgrimage route began from the  Patriarchal Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ in Kyiv.  A bicycle route , extending  seventy kilometers (from Irpin), was also available for specifically active participants.

Vespers for all intentions of the gathered were said in front of the icon of the Blessed Mother, the Intercessor of Vyshhorod, as well as a special prayer for mothers.

For supper the pilgrims were offered the “Vyshhorod  pilgrim  borscht.”

During the night of May 18-19, night prayers were organized for the pilgrims, beginning with Great Evening vespers with litany and continued with contemplations of the  Holy Scripture, silent prayers, processions with candles and other services which lasted until 3 AM.  Then the pilgrims rested in tents.

On Sunday morning Bishop Josaphat (Hovera), Lutsk Exarch, celebrated the Divine Liturgy and imparted his hierarchal blessing on all present.

The pilgrimage organizers hope that the fame of the Vyshhorod Blessed Mother will grow not only in Ukraine but also beyond its territory.  It is here in Vyshhorod that one can experience its special presence.

Video

Photo

UGCC Department of Information