SHAMOKIN, Pa. – Bringing the Ukrainian National Association’s 125th anniversary Year to a close, a commemorative event was held on February 9 in the city of Shamokin, Pa., the birthplace of the UNA.
A hierarchical divine liturgy, celebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Andriy Rabiy of the Ukrainian Catholic Metropolitan Archeparchy of Philadelphia, was held at Transfiguration of the Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church. Assisting in the liturgy was the church’s pastor, the Rev. Mykola Ivanov. Singing the responses in the Ukrainian language during the liturgy were members of the Dzvin Ukrainian Male Choir from Philadelphia. Joining them with responses in the English language was the Kazka Ukrainian Folk Ensemble. Tom Hasupa, cantor at Transfiguration Church, provided the scripture reading.
During his homily, Bishop Andriy spoke about the history and important work of the Ukrainian National Association, particularly in the lives of the early immigrants in the area and founders of the association. He stressed the need to continue to work together for the good of the community.
Yuriy Symczyk
UNA Chief Financial Officer/Treasurer Roma Lisovich addresses the celebratory luncheon.
Following the liturgy, a musical presentation and luncheon were provided at the parish hall. The program opened with a prayer by Father Ivanov and the presentation of colors by members of Lehigh Valley’s Jack Palance Post 42 of the Ukrainian American Veterans. Joining Jerry Kindrachuk and Mathew Koziak in the color guard was Vincent Chesney, grandson of Michael Yonkovig, who was a member of the parish as well as a member of the post. Mr. Yonkovig had been a co-chairman of the UNA 75th anniversary celebration held in Shamokin. The Kazka Ensemble followed with the singing of the American and Ukrainian national anthems.
UNA Chief Operating Officer/National Secretary Yuriy Symczyk greeted the attendees, while UNA Chief Financial Officer/Treasurer Roma Lisovich spoke of the hardships of the early Ukrainian Immigrants and the role of the UNA.
Northumberland County Commissioners Joseph Klebon and Sam Schiccatano present proclamations.
Northumberland County Commissioners Joseph Klebon and Sam Schiccatano presented proclamations from the county. Mr. Klebon is a long-time member of the parish. Mr. Schiccatano also presented a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives sponsored by State Rep. Kurt Masser.
Jerry Kindrachuk extended a greeting from the National Executive Board of the Ukrainian American Veterans and thanked the UNA for its continuous support of the organization.
During the musical portion of the event, the Dzvin Choir provided a lively rendition of Ukrainian songs, while the Kazka Ensemble also sang, presented a Ukrainian folk dance and joined in a beautiful trio instrumental performance with violinist Innesa Tymochko Dekajlo. During the luncheon, Ms. Tymochko Dekajlo entertained the audience, playing a medley of songs on the violin. The program ended with a solo by the violinist.