The Ukrainian Orthodox Parish of Saints Peter and Paul in Carnegie, PA, experienced a deeply spiritual and enriching occasion as Archbishop Daniel of the Western Eparchy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA, presided over the Liturgy of Presanctified Gifts. Joined by the parish's pastor, Fr. John Charest, visiting clergy from Pittsburgh Metropolitan area Ukrainian Orthodox parishes (Very Rev. Fr. Timothy Tomson of St. Mary Ukrainian Orthodox parish in MacKees Rocks, PA; Very Rev. Fr. John Halusczak of St. Volodymyr Ukrainian Orthodox parish in Pittsburgh, PA; Very Rev. Fr. Michael Kochis of St. Vladimir Ukrainian Orthodox Parish in Ambridge, PA; Rev. Fr. James Cairs of Sts Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Parish in Dixonville, PA and Holy Ascension Ukrainian Orthodox Parish in Nanty Glo, PA; Rev. Fr. Yurii Bobko of the Sts Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox parish in Lyndora, PA; Rev. Fr. Mykola Zomchak of Sts Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox parish in Youngstown, OH;  Deacon Evan O’Neil of Sts Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox parish in Carnegie, PA and Deacon Roman Marchyshak of the Three Holy Hierarchs Chapel of St. Sophia Ukrainian Orthodox Theological Seminary in South Bound Brook, NJ), and seminarians from St. Sophia Seminary, Archbishop Daniel led the congregation in a profound worship experience.

The presence of Archbishop Daniel, along with the visiting clergy and seminarians, added a sense of reverence and unity to the Liturgy of Presanctified Gifts. Together, they guided the faithful through the ancient sacred liturgical rituals of the service, fostering a deep connection to the divine and to one another.

In his sermon, Archbishop Daniel spoke eloquently about the importance of reassessing the values of life in relation to spiritual, moral, and social aspects. His words resonated with the congregation, encouraging introspection and a renewed commitment to living a life rooted in faith, compassion, and integrity.

A significant number of parishioners approached the chalice to receive the Holy Eucharist, symbolizing their spiritual communion with Christ and reaffirming their commitment to their Orthodox faith. The act of partaking in the Eucharist served as a profound moment of unity and grace for the worshipers, strengthening their bond with God and one another.

Following the Liturgy, parishioners and guests gathered for a potluck dinner, providing an opportunity for fellowship and camaraderie with Archbishop Daniel. The shared meal strengthened the bonds of community and allowed for meaningful interactions between the clergy, seminarians, and the faithful.

The visit of Archbishop Daniel to the Ukrainian Orthodox Parish of Saints Peter and Paul was a truly uplifting and transformative experience for all in attendance. His presence, coupled with the rich traditions of the Orthodox faith, served to deepen the spiritual journey of the parish community and inspire a renewed dedication to living out the values of love, compassion, and service in their daily lives.

As the parishioners bid farewell to Archbishop Daniel, they carried with them the blessings and teachings imparted during the Liturgy of Presanctified Gifts. Their hearts and minds enriched by the experience, they left with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to their Orthodox faith.