On Sunday, January 26, 2020 His Eminence Archbishop Metropolitan Borys Gudziak of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia made his first archpastoral visit to Assumption Catholic Church and School in Perth Amboy, NJ. As His Eminence arrived to celebrate the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, he was warmly greeted by the parish financial officers Michael Raab Jr and Michael Lawrence with the traditional bread and salt and by the parish and ACS children presenting him flowers. Then Rev. Ivan Turyk, pastor of Assumption Parish welcomed the Archbishop and presented a Cross asking him to lead the parish family in the Divine Liturgy. The parish’s choir “Boyan” prayerfully chanted the liturgical responses.

Archbishop Gudziak delivered an inspiring homily which touched the hearts of all present and at the conclusion of the Liturgy presented two Assumption Catholic School students with one year free tuition scholarship from the Scholarship Raffle the Archeparchy conducted for the parish schools. These two hard working and dedicated students were selected for being a living models of our school’s vision To Know, To Love, To Serve God.  

The Liturgy was beautiful and Archbishop Borys was particularly impressed by the beauty of the church masterpieces, including extensive mosaic iconography and a rare painted biblical mural iconography by Jacques Hnizdovsky. Following the Divine Liturgy the parish provided a bountiful meal in honor of Archbishop. 

At the reception His Eminence took the time to personally greet and bless many people, emulating the love of the Gospel through his words and actions. He was especially engaging with the youth, and encouraged them to remain close to the Church and to stay strong in their faith.

This special visit from Archbishop to the parish during Catholic Schools Week, was a special treat for students of Assumption Catholic School, who enthusiastically greeted the Archdiocesan shepherd as he was escorted through the school by the Principal Mrs. Lissette Shumny, pastor and members of the Family School Association.

It was a blessing and honor for the faithful of Assumption Community in Perth Amboy, NJ have His Eminence Archbishop Borys visit us within such a short time following his Enthronement in June. Thank you Vladyko and May God bless You in your ministry!