Each year, as the sacred journey of the Nativity Fast draws closer to its joyful fulfillment, St. Sophia Ukrainian Orthodox Theological Seminary opens its doors and hearts to the beloved annual observance known as “Christmas at the Seminary.” This prayerful and joy-filled tradition once again gathered friends, benefactors, clergy, and faithful within the venerable walls of the Seminary to celebrate the approaching Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

On Saturday, December 13^th, 2025 the feast of the Holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called, seminarians of St. Sophia Seminary lovingly welcomed guests into the historic Seminary building - an edifice dating back to the 1800s, which through the centuries has hosted people of many nations, cultures, and backgrounds. In recent years, these same walls have echoed with sacred hymns joyfully proclaiming the birth of Christ, transforming the ancient structure into a living Bethlehem of song and prayer.

For several months, the seminarians prepared diligently for this evening, rehearsing a carefully chosen selection of Christmas carols in both Ukrainian and English. Under the guidance of their instructor for the second-level music courses, Rev. Fr. Roman Marchyshak - himself a graduate of St. Sophia Seminary - the students devoted countless hours to refining harmony, diction, and prayerful expression. Their dedication bore beautiful fruit as each hymn was offered not merely as a performance, but as a proclamation of faith.

The afternnon was blessed by the presence of His Eminence Metropolitan Antony, Prime Hierarch of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA and Rector of St. Sophia Seminary. In his archpastoral presence, the Seminary community - faculty, staff, and students - stood united in gratitude to God for the gift of this sacred season and for the ministry of theological formation entrusted to St. Sophia Seminary.

Among the most moving moments of the program was the chanting of “Carol of the Bells”, sung in both Ukrainian and English. The familiar melody resonated deeply, reminding all present that this cherished carol is itself a hymn of proclamation - announcing to the world the great and saving news of Christ’s coming. The carols were beautifully interwoven with short Nativity greetings offered by the seminarians, following an ancient tradition of poetic proclamation - recited and sung - where theology, poetry, and music unite to tell the story of salvation: that God has entered human history as a Child, the Savior of the world.

Special words of gratitude were offered to the benefactors and friends of the Seminary who came not only to hear the carols, but also to bring “gifts of love” - support for the seminarians and much-needed logistical supplies for St. Sophia Seminary. Their generosity stands as a living testimony to the shared responsibility of the Church to nurture future pastors, theologians, and servants of Christ.

Following the presentation of carols, all in attendance were invited to a time of fellowship with light refreshments and snacks, lovingly prepared by the Seminary staff and graciously coordinated by Dobrodiyka Oksana Pasakas. This moment of shared fellowship further reflected the spirit of the Nativity - warmth, hospitality, and communion rooted in Christ.

Very Rev. Fr. Vasyl Pasakas, the Dean of Students of the Seminary, greeting those in attendance, stated: “As the journey of Saint Philip’s Fast nears its end and the Feast of the Nativity draws near, Christmas at the Seminary once again reminded all present that preparation for Christ’s birth is not only external, but deeply spiritual. Through prayer, song, generosity, and community, the Seminary bore witness to the truth that Christ is already coming to meet us.”

May we continue to walk together on this path of salvation, allowing the light of the newborn Christ to illumine our hearts, our homes, and our world.

Christ is born! Glorify Him!