Eparchial Family Retreat 2026

Eparchial Family Retreat Brings Families Together in Faith and Joy

From September 11–13, 2026, families from across the Eparchy of Edmonton gathered for a weekend of prayer, reflection, fellowship and joyful family activities.

Twenty-seven families registered for the retreat, and 25 families ultimately attended, bringing together 128 participants. The retreat was led by Father Mikhailo Ozorovych, pastor of the Holy Eucharist Cathedral in the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of New Westminster, Canada.

The weekend offered families an opportunity to step away from their usual routines, deepen their faith and spend meaningful time together.

Exploring the Spirituality of Family Life

Throughout the weekend, Father Mikhailo led four talks in both English and Ukrainian. The presentations focused on practical and spiritual themes for family life:

• “Practising the Presence of God: The Spirituality of the Family”
• “Marriage Vows: A Source of Grace for Couples”
• “Slowing Down to the Speed of Joy”
• “Families of Saints: A Source of Inspiration for Modern Families”

While adults participated in the talks, children and youth were divided into age- and language-based groups. Volunteers prepared activities on the theme “Faith in the Family,” allowing younger participants to learn, reflect and build friendships in an age-appropriate setting.

A Full Weekend of Prayer, Learning and Fellowship

The retreat began on Friday with registration and dinner, followed by the first spiritual talk. Families then prayed the Way of the Cross together before gathering around the bonfire for songs accompanied by guitar.

Saturday began with morning exercises, the singing of the Ukrainian and Canadian national anthems, prayer and breakfast. Families then participated in two more spiritual talks, along with a full programme of activities.

Artist Liubov Kostetska led a family art-therapy experience called “The Little Artist — The Big Family.” Each family received a large canvas and worked together to create a shared painting. Through a series of creative prompts, every family member contributed their own elements to the composition. After the activity, Ms. Kostetska professionally completed each family’s artwork.

The afternoon included “Fun Starts,” a series of games and team activities for families. Participants also had the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation or speak privately with a priest.

The day concluded with dinner, communal prayer of the Rosary, a Romantic Evening for couples, a Ukrainian party and another bonfire open to everyone.

On Sunday, families began the day with morning exercises and the national anthems, followed by the Divine Liturgy and the final retreat talk. The weekend concluded with a group photo, brunch, cleaning the retreat grounds and heartfelt farewells.

Families Share Their Reflections

Participants expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to pray, learn and spend time together as families.

“These were beautiful days filled with goodness, faith and blessing. It was a wonderful experience for our family—the first time we have had an opportunity like this in Canada. Many thanks to the organizers, priests and everyone who participated.”

— Olesia and Vasyl Hedeon

“I am grateful for everything, because it was a beautiful time.”

— Olha Musnytska

“We are especially grateful for Father Mikhailo’s meaningful talks, as well as the bonfire, dancing, karaoke, games, competitions, Romantic Evening for couples and the retreat location.”

— Yurii Bundzylo

“Father Mikhailo’s talks were great. The Romantic Evening for couples was also really nice. The separate children’s and youth programmes during the adult talks were so helpful. It was a good balance of learning, information and activities.”

— Rob and Emily Reid

“We enjoyed the adult sessions with Father Ozorovych the most. Please invite him back!”

— The Krupa family

“Everything worked very well and ran smoothly. Our family truly appreciated the effort of the organizers, volunteers and priests who made this such a fruitful weekend.”

— Sean Keogan

“We were incredibly enriched by listening to Father Mikhailo’s talks, praying together as families and enjoying time together. I pray that initiatives like this will continue to grow for the glory of God and the strengthening of our families.”

— Lesia Kostiuk

Thank You

This retreat was made possible through the shared work, generosity and dedication of many people.

We sincerely thank Father Mikhailo Ozorovych for leading the retreat and sharing his wisdom with our families. We also thank every family who participated, especially those who helped organize the programme and contributed their time, skills and talents.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes to all the volunteers who served throughout the weekend and helped create such a welcoming and meaningful experience for everyone.

May God bless all the families of our Eparchy and continue to strengthen them in faith, love and joy.