The Sisters of St. Basil the Great Welcome Catechetical Students and Parents from New York for a Day of Prayer and Spiritual Renewal
On October 31, 2026, the Sisters of St. Basil the Great welcomed about sixty catechetical students and parents from St. George Church in New York City for a day of prayer, spiritual renewal, and fellowship. Organized by Sr. Dia Zagurska, OSBM, the visit included programs for both parents and children.
The day began with a Divine Liturgy celebrated by Fr. John Ciurpita, chaplain. The parents had an opportunity for spiritual renewal and learned more about the monastic life of the Basilian Sisters. Meanwhile, the children enthusiastically participated in a Bible-themed scavenger hunt and enjoyed opportunities to run, play, and explore the monastery grounds. Volunteer youth leaders from nearby communities helped with the children’s activities.
The theme of the day was the Akathist Hymn to the Mother of God. Sr. Kornelia Zhupnyk, OSBM, explained the history, structure, and icon of the hymn, attributed to St. Romanus the Melodist. Participants deepened their understanding of the spiritual richness of this prayer and its special place in the Eastern Christian Tradition. The presentation concluded with the communal praying of the Akathist Hymn to the Most Holy Theotokos in the Sisters’ chapel, led by Sr. Kornelia.
The guests also toured the monastery, visited the Legacy Room of the Basilian Sisters, and learned more about the history, spirituality, and mission of the Order.
At the end of the day, the Sisters thanked the youth volunteers and the Catechetical School of St. George Church for the visit, shared prayer, and joyful gathering. The day brought together prayer, spiritual enrichment, meaningful conversations, children’s laughter, and warm fellowship.
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