Krekhiv Monastery Pilgrimage Focuses on Prayers for Religious Vocations

On July 25–26, 2026, thousands of pilgrims gathered at the Basilian Monastery of St. Nicholas in Krekhiv for the annual pilgrimage honoring the Krekhiv (Verkhrata) Miraculous Icon of the Mother of God. This year’s pilgrimage was offered especially for holy, generous, and abundant vocations to the consecrated religious life.

The celebration began on July 22 with a five-day vocation discernment program for young men seeking to discover God’s call in their lives. Participants experienced the daily rhythm of Basilian monastic life through prayer, the Divine Liturgy, spiritual conferences, community life, and personal reflection, helping them listen more closely to God’s voice.

During the pilgrimage, the faithful came from across Ukraine to venerate the miraculous icon of the Mother of God, which was carried in a solemn procession according to a centuries-old tradition.

One of the highlights was the homily of Fr. Luis Caciano, OSBM, General Councilor of the Order of St. Basil the Great of St. Josaphat. He encouraged young people to remain open to God’s will and to respond generously to His call.

On Sunday, July 26, Bishop Vasyl Tuchapets, Exarch of Kharkiv, celebrated the Divine Liturgy. Pilgrims who fulfilled the required spiritual conditions were able to receive a plenary indulgence. The pilgrimage became a powerful witness of faith, unity, and prayer for new vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

Each year, the Krekhiv pilgrimage remains one of the most important spiritual events at this Basilian shrine, bringing together thousands of faithful before the miraculous icon of the Mother of God. This year’s celebration once again reminded everyone that prayer, openness to God’s will, and the courage to answer His call are essential for a vibrant and living Church.