Eparchy of St. Josaphat in Parma Holds Fall Youth Retreat on the Call to Holiness
Young people, young adult leaders, lay faithful, and clergy from the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of St. Josaphat in Parma and the Byzantine Catholic Metropolitan Archeparchy of Pittsburgh gathered for the annual Fall Youth Retreat on September 18–20, 2026, at Camp Guyasuta in Sharpsburg, Pennsylvania. This year’s theme was “Called to be Holy: Living God’s Purpose Through His Grace.”
he theme drew on St. Paul’s Second Letter to Timothy: “[He] saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works but according to his own purpose and grace” (2 Timothy 1:9 a, NRSVCE).
The retreat was organized by the Eparchial Youth Committee under the leadership of its director, Fr. Lubomir Zhybak. Michael Spak coordinated the event with assistance from his wife, Belinda, and fellow committee members.
The main speaker was Fr. Nathaniel Tapsak of the Byzantine Catholic Metropolitan Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, pastor of Holy Trinity Byzantine Catholic Church in Sykesville and Nativity of the Mother of God Byzantine Catholic Church in DuBois, Pennsylvania.
In his opening presentation, “True Happiness,” Fr. Nathaniel distinguished fleeting happiness from the lasting peace found in Jesus Christ. Drawing on the Sermon on the Mount, he encouraged participants to seek God’s Kingdom first and make prayer, the Church’s worship, and the Holy Mysteries central to their lives. He also offered practical advice on preparing for prayer: finding a quiet place, setting aside distractions, and establishing a regular routine.
His second presentation, “What Is Prayer and How Do I Do It?”, explored Christ’s teaching and example, along with insights from the Christian spiritual tradition. Fr. Nathaniel emphasized that prayer requires attention, perseverance, and openness to God’s will. He encouraged participants to establish a daily rule of prayer, beginning with regular morning and evening prayer.
The program included the Hours, Vespers, an examination of conscience, and opportunities to receive the Holy Mystery of Confession. An “Ask the Clergy” session with Fr. Lubomir and Fr. Nathaniel gave participants an opportunity to discuss questions of faith and share their experiences. A campfire, archery, and a boat ride along Pittsburgh’s rivers provided time for recreation and fellowship.
On Sunday, Bishop Bohdan Danylo, Fr. Yaroslav Koval, and parishioners welcomed the group to St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church in Pittsburgh. Bishop Bohdan presided at the Divine Liturgy, concelebrated by Fr. Yaroslav and Fr. Nathaniel. The retreat concluded with a parish luncheon.
The organizers thanked the Eparchial Youth Committee, volunteers, and Camp Guyasuta staff for their support and hospitality. The next Fall Youth Retreat is planned for fall 2027.
Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of St. Josaphat in Parma
