Save as PDFSt John the Baptist Parish, Vegreville
The Patriarchal Russian Orthodox of St. the Baptist in Vegreville, Alberta, was built in the years 1922 and 1923. It was organized and built by immigrants who had originally come to Canada from the provinces of Galicia and Bukovina. The first members of the parish and the builders of the church were: George Ponich (the leader of the building committee), Mike Yaremcio, George Makowichuk, Lazar Kassian, Mr. Martiniuk, Semeon Wereziuk, Steve Rusnak, Timotey Federiuk, Manoly Kostashuk, Manoly Skintey, and others whose names are not available.
In 1928 the Church was incorporated under the Statutes of the Province of Alberta. The document for incorporation was signed by Manoly Kostashuk and Manoly Skintey on behalf of the parish.
On the great feast day of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, celebrated on July 7, 1927, the church in Vegreville was officially consecrated.
On June, 24, 2001, the Russo Orthodox Parish of St. John the Baptist in Vegreville, Alberta, was honoured by the celebration of the 104th of the Orthodoxy in Canada, which was observed by all the Patriarchal Orthodox Parishes in Canada. His Eminence Mark, Archbishop of Kashira, Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in Canada, assisted by Very Reverend John Shandra and Rev. Igor Kisil (Parish priest), celebrated the Divine Liturgy which was followed by a banquet and program for all the participants.