The Holy Archangel Michael Ukrainian Orthodox Parish in Baltimore, Maryland, celebrated its 75th anniversary with a spiritually uplifting and joyous Jubilee on November 17, 2024. His Eminence Metropolitan Antony, Primate of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA, blessed His Eminence Archbishop Daniel to lead the celebrations. Accompanied by Deacon Maksym Zhuravchyk and seminarians from St. Sophia Ukrainian Orthodox Theological Seminary, Archbishop Daniel inspired the congregation with his prayers and reflections, making the weekend a testament to faith, perseverance, and the enduring guidance of the Holy Spirit within this historic community.

Upon his arrival, Vladyka Daniel was welcomed with the traditional Ukrainian offering of bread and salt, presented by the parish board of administration. This cherished custom represents the heart of Ukrainian hospitality. Bread symbolizes life and sustenance, while salt conveys wisdom, preservation, and the unbreakable bonds of unity. The tradition reflects biblical values, reminding the faithful of the importance of sharing God’s blessings and extending fellowship. In this context, it also underscored the parish’s gratitude and joy in receiving their archpastor.

Following this welcome, the parish’s children presented Archbishop Daniel with bouquets of flowers, joyfully embracing him as their spiritual leader. The archpastor blessed the youth, urging them to remain steadfast in their faith and grow in their relationship with Christ. 

The Very Rev. Fr. Vasyl Kryshtompol, pastor of the parish, formally welcomed Archbishop Daniel and humbly requested his prayers for the people and nation of Ukraine. Fr. Vasyl’s heartfelt appeal highlighted the recent devastation caused by a deadly attack involving drones and rockets. He also commemorated the parish’s founders, whose vision and sacrifice built a sanctuary for the faithful that has thrived for three-quarters of a century.

In his response, Archbishop Daniel conveyed greetings from Metropolitan Antony and lifted up prayers for Ukraine, the United States, and the parish community. He specifically acknowledged the presence of Ukrainian military officers and sailors receiving professional training in Baltimore, recognizing their service and sacrifices as a testament to the broader mission of peace and justice.

The Jubilee’s spiritual highlight was the Divine Liturgy, celebrated by Archbishop Daniel and enriched by the angelic chanting of the St. Sophia Seminary choir. Deacon Maksym Zhuravchyk offered petitions for peace and stability in Ukraine, addressing the concerns of those with loved ones impacted by war or scattered as refugees.

In his homily, Archbishop Daniel shared a profound reflection on the meaning of true success, drawing from the Gospel story of the rich man who hoarded material possessions:

“Success is not measured by wealth or power but by the presence of God’s grace in our lives. True fulfillment lies in using what we have to glorify God, help others, and pursue the salvation of our souls. Let us remember that all material possessions are temporary, while love, charity, and faith endure forever and lead us to eternal life.

Our concept of success is going from poverty to riches.  God's concept of success is going from riches to poverty.  St. Paul and all the Church Fathers simply say: "THOUGH HE WAS RICH YET FOR OUR SAKES BECAME POOR SO THAT BY HIS POVERTY WE MIGHT BECOME RICH."

For the real Christian, success is believing that the intimate God lives in me and desires to work through me.  Success is being honest enough to recognize my need for God's help and humble enough to receive it when offered.  Success is being God's person in every situation.  Success is finding a purpose in life that is larger than life itself.  And what larger purpose can there be than knowing, loving and serving God?  

Success is learning to live by principles, not by moods.  Success is learning, improving, growing more into the perfect icon (or reflection) or image of Christ.  Success is inviting God to walk with us each day; it is being in the Kingdom of God here and now.  Success is turning away from sin and returning to the Father.

Each time you pray you are a success.  Each time you have faith in God you are a success.  Each time you replace a thought of anger or doubt with an affirmation of God's truth, you are a success.  Each time you accomplish a task, and know in your heart it was your best effort, you are a success.  Each time someone looks at you for strength and support, and you are able to help, you are the real success. Be successful!

His words resonated deeply with the congregation, inspiring renewed commitment to spiritual priorities. Over 50 parishioners approached to partake in the Holy Eucharist, uniting in the transformative grace of Christ."

After the Liturgy, the parish family gathered for a commemorative photograph and a Jubilee luncheon. Fr. Vasyl Kryshtompol and the Very Rev. Fr. Volodymyr Steliac of St. Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral in Silver Spring, Maryland, expressed gratitude to Archbishop Daniel for his leadership and the UOC-USA’s continuous humanitarian aid to Ukraine during its ongoing struggles.

At the luncheon, certificates of appreciation were presented to dedicated parishioners who embody the spirit of the Holy Archangel Michael community: Tony Kondratenko, Victor Stryzak and Kristine Stryzak.

Ukrainian Navy sailors in attendance – Captain Mykhailo Brychkar and Captain Dmytro Lytvyn were recognized with tridents bearing the UOC-USA emblem in gratitude for their service. Retired Navy officer George Melnychenko and Fr. Vasyl Kryshtompol also received tridents for their unwavering support of Ukrainian sailors and their families.

A highlight of the event was the awarding of the Medal of St. Olga the Great to Nina Chechulin, a lifelong parishioner whose dedication and faithfulness have inspired generations. This medal, one of the church’s highest honors, celebrates those whose lives exemplify Christian virtue and service. Nina’s legacy is a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have within a spiritual community.

The celebration concluded with traditional Ukrainian songs led by the seminarians, blending sacred music with the rich cultural heritage of the Ukrainian people. These melodies served as a beautiful reminder of the unity and resilience that faith provides.

As the Jubilee ended, the parish community reflected on its sacred mission: to be a beacon of faith, love, and service in a world often burdened by division. Archbishop Daniel’s presence, prayers, and words of encouragement left an indelible impression, inspiring all to embrace a life of holiness and purpose.