September 19, 2025, was a truly special day for Assumption Parish and School, as we had the great honor of welcoming Cardinal Mykola Bychok of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Sts. Peter and Paul in Melbourne, Australia. Cardinal Bychok, the youngest cardinal in the universal Church, recently participated in the historic 2025 conclave that elected Pope Leo.
The arrival of His Eminence was marked by deep emotion and heartfelt celebration. Pastor Fr. Ivan Turyk, Principal Mrs. Lisette Shumny, and the students of Assumption Catholic School greeted the Cardinal with traditional gifts of bread and salt, beautiful bouquets of flowers, and a special welcome poem prepared by the children.
The Divine Liturgy that followed was celebrated with reverence, joy, and a profound sense of unity. In his homily, Cardinal Bychok reaffirmed Assumption Catholic School’s enduring commitment to faith and learning. A particularly moving moment occurred when the Cardinal lit a candle—handmade by one of our parishioners—and offered a heartfelt prayer for peace in Ukraine:
“We ask You to send Your holy angels to watch over the land of Ukraine. Let this flame be a symbol of hope, a prayer rising toward heaven, and a reminder that light will always overcome darkness.”
To conclude the Liturgy, the congregation and students joined their voices in singing Ukraine’s spiritual anthem, Bozhe Velykyi Yedynyi (O Great and Only God), filling the church with a powerful spirit of prayer and unity.
After the Liturgy, Cardinal Bychok visited the Sisters Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matará, praying with them and offering words of encouragement. He reassured the Sisters of his continued prayers for their vocation and for all consecrated life.
Following his visit with the Sisters, the Cardinal toured the school, met with faculty and staff, and took time to speak personally with many students. He encouraged them to embrace their faith and to recognize the God-given potential within each of them. He also offered a special blessing to the entire school community.
During his visit, the Cardinal shared insights about Australia, the country he currently serves—speaking about its unique wildlife (including spiders!), its weather, and what it’s like to lead a church there.
Additionally, he spoke about his vocation to the priesthood, the process of electing a pope in a conclave, offering students a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the Catholic Church.
This visit marked the first-ever visit of a cardinal to our parish and school—a historic and unforgettable occasion that filled our hearts with joy, hope, and deep gratitude. Cardinal Bychok’s presence was a true blessing, and his message of faith, peace, and purpose will remain in our hearts for years to come.
