As has become tradition, the UPA branch in Philadelphia celebrated the end of the educational
season with their annual "Youth Day". This year the festival was held at "Tryzubivka" on June
3rd, 2001 and began with a 'zbirka', or organization of the young Sumvitsi. It was followed by
the raising of the Ukrainian and American flags and singing of the SUM anthem. From there they
marched to the pavilion for the blessed liturgy.
The field mass was led by the Reverend Stefan Soroka, the new Archbishop of Philadelphia
and Metropolitan of Ukrainian Catholics in America. In cooperation with the board of the Sports
Club "Tryzub", the Sumivtsi welcomed the respected guest with a large sign reading "Welcome
Archbishop". Upon arrival, a delegates of the organization along with members of the Ukrainian
dance ensemble "Vesna", greeted the Metropolitan in uniform and Ukrainian national costumes and
presented him with the traditional gift of bread and salt. In his greeting speech, Branch
President Ivan Javorsky spoke of the motto "God and Ukraine", thanked the Archbishop for his
understanding of the needs of our youth, and wished him much success in his tenure as the leader
of our Church in America.
After the service, the official portion of the day was held, with the distribution of awards
for the season's work. After lunch, sports were played and a cultural performance of song and
dance was given by the children. To end the festivities, the official closing was held where
the flags were lowered with the singing of the Ukrainian National anthem.
