“He took a guitar and music helped him to carry God’s light”: Head of the UGCC expresses condolences on the death of Father Roman Galadza
The Father and Head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, His Beatitude Sviatoslav, expressed his condolences to Mrs. Iryna Galadza, the family and friends of the newly reposed Fr. Roman Galadza. The priest fell asleep in God on August 1, 2023, in Canada after a prolonged illness.
“Father Roman was the rector of St. Elias the Prophet parish in Brampton, near Toronto, Ontario, for many years. This is an example of a priest who built a church in an open field — a wonderful church in the Boyko style — and put all his efforts into fostering a family community of believers who love prayer, live in a Christian spirit, and preserve and multiply the great cultural heritage of their homeland,” said the Primate.
The Head of the Church emphasized that Fr. Roman knew how to offer everyone words of comfort, consolation, and support. “And when he thought this was not enough, he simply would take up the guitar — and the music helped him spread God’s light to people’s hearts. This is how the Mother Church in Ukraine remembers this pastor through the numerous camps organized by the Ukrainian Catholic University. The departed father made great efforts to popularize and develop this educational institution,” said His Beatitude Sviatoslav.
“Today, for the last time, the newly departed gathered his entire family around him, including the children he raised, taught, and blessed into this world. As a father, he rejoiced that his upbringing and prayer for each of you were not in vain. You have gained a lot. Continue to be decent representatives of the glorious Galadza family!” the Patriarch addressed the family of the newly deceased priest.
“God grant Your faithful priest, dear husband, brother, father, and grandfather an eternal memory!” His Beatitude Sviatoslav added.
The funeral of Fr Roman is to be held on August 7.
The UGCC Department for Information
