A group of dedicated pilgrims retraced the historical journey taken by Ukrainian immigrants, walking from McAdoo to Shenandoah to honor their heritage and faith. This significant event took place on November 22, 2025, and was marked by a spirit of remembrance and solidarity.
Among the participants was Christine Harasymczuk, who felt a deep connection to her grandparents, Dmytro and Matrona Capitula, as she walked past the site of the old St. Nicholas colliery. Before the establishment of St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church in 1925, the Capitulas would make the same journey to worship at St. Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Catholic Church. “It touches my heart,” Harasymczuk reflected. “They were so deeply steeped in their faith; they walked this road to church in all kinds of weather.”
The 14-mile trek was not an easy feat, but it was undertaken by around a dozen individuals, including Harasymczuk and her husband, Louis. The group began their walk at 08:00, receiving a blessing from Archpriest Mark Fesniak, pastor of St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church in Minersville.
The pilgrims paused for lunch at Delano Fire Co. No. 1 before continuing their journey to Mahanoy City. As they approached Shenandoah, the atmosphere was charged with purpose and reflection. Vladimir Holoviak, a 23-year-old participant from Hazleton, led the final segment while carrying a Ukrainian flag, symbolizing their shared identity and mission.
Initially, the walk was dedicated to the devout Ukrainian immigrants who settled in the area approximately a decade ago. However, since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine in February 2022, the focus has shifted toward raising awareness of the ongoing struggles faced by the Ukrainian people. “The plight of Ukraine has become a central theme of our pilgrimage,” explained Paula Holoviak, a Sugarloaf resident and political science instructor at Kutztown University.
According to reports, approximately 46,000 Ukrainians have died and 380,000 have been injured since the conflict began. The walk aims not only to honor the past but also to support humanitarian efforts. Joseph Krushinsky, a consultant from Tamaqua, noted that the event helps raise funds for the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia’s humanitarian initiatives. Through its Healing of Wounds Fund, the archeparchy has generated $7.2 million to provide food assistance, medical care, and support for displaced persons and refugees.
Among the pilgrims were three seniors from Marian Catholic High School: Alex Krapf, Alex Holoviak, and Samuel Farrone. Their participation underscored the intergenerational aspect of the walk, linking the youth with their heritage.
Upon reaching St. Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Catholic Church around 14:00, the group was greeted by Rev. Bohdan Vasyliv, who welcomed the walkers on the church steps. The day concluded with a brief service, where the pilgrims were blessed with a crucifix containing a spiritual relic, an intimate moment reflecting their faith and devotion.
This historic walk serves not only as a tribute to the past but also as a reminder of the resilience of the Ukrainian community in the face of ongoing challenges. It illustrates the enduring bond between generations and the commitment to preserving cultural heritage through acts of remembrance and solidarity.
