Today the church celebrates The Feast of Saint Josephat. Born in Poland in the 17th century and raised Ukrainian Orthodox, Josephat was intent on joining the Ukrainian Church in Rome, which led to his murder in 1623. He was formally canonized a saint of the Eastern Rite in 1867.

Let us pray. Stir up in Your church we pray, O Lord, the Spirit that filled Saint Josephat as he laid down his life for the sheep, so that through his intercession we too may be strengthened by the same spirit, and not be afraid to lay down our life for others. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.