UCWLC
In
1904, the first women's organization, Sisterhood of Saint Barbara was organized
at Saint Nicholas Parish. Alongside the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate,
this group cared for the altar linens and sacred furnishings, as well as the
baking of the eucharistic bread (prosphora) and sacristan duties.
On May 25, 1945, women from Saint Nicholas Parish formed the very first branch of the newly established national organization of the Ukrainian Catholic Women's League. The central aims of this organization are: to serve ther Church by enriching the religious and spiritual life of the parishioners; to preserve the Ukrainian language and culture; to support programs of charitable action; and, to strenghten the spiritual dimensions and moral values of Canadian life.
The Patroness
of the UCWLC is the Most Holy Mother of God.
The UCWLC has become an integral part of parish life at St. Nicholas. In addition, its members have consistently played an important role in the Archeparchy of Winnipeg and accross Canada, most notably, former branch and regional president Shirley Lisowski is currently serving as National UCWLC president and former branch president Theresa Antoniuk served as regional president.
Saint Nicholas UCWLC contributes an annual scholarship funds to Immacultate Heart of Mary School and awards annually a $500 scholarship as well as a $500 bursary to a parishioner's child or grandchild pursuing further studies at university, college or the Faculty of Nursing.
Father Christopher Zajac, OSBM served as Chaplain of the parish UCWLC from 1996-2004. Currently, Father Zachary Shwaluk, OSBM is Chaplain, assisted by other Basilian Fathers. Shirley Erstelle is League President.
Read Bishop Cornelius Pasichny's address to the 2005 UCWLC Convention:
"The Eucharist &
the Mother of God"