Word and Deed United with Prayer at Hairy Hill and Boian

Monday, July 13th, Tuesday, July 14th, and Wednesday, July 15th were days of joy, spiritual effort, and concrete work in the historic area of the first Romanian settlers in the Hairy Hill / Boian region. These days are part of a new initiative of the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Canada to develop the project New Generations, Same Roots, which aims to strengthen religious, spiritual, cultural, and community ties among Romanians in Alberta and Western Canada.

An important step in the realization of this project is the establishment of the “Saint Metropolitan Dosoftei Center” - a missionary, educational, and cultural center meant to support religious and liturgical, cultural, and historical activities for everyone, but especially for youth and the new generations.

The Center aims to play a vital role in ensuring the continuity of Romanian Orthodox life and in preserving the spiritual and historical heritage of the Boian / Hairy Hill area, a region with special significance in the history of the Romanian community in Canada.

During these three days, the local community was blessed by the presence of His Grace Bishop Ioan Casian, Romanian Orthodox Bishop of Canada, Father Petre Busuioc (Oshawa), and Father Lucian Azoiței (Mississauga). With the financial support of priests, parishes, and monasteries from the Toronto area, the three, along with other local volunteers, took part in the effort to clear and prepare the land for the future project.

In addition to the three clergymen, the following also took part logistically and practically in the activities: Gerry Hill and Bob Dushenski, who generously provided the necessary equipment; Doug Shapka, who transported the equipment; Andrei, who helped with all the tasks; Jackie Toma, who contributed with enthusiasm and valuable knowledge. Georgina Porozni and Darline Shelemey also joined the initiative by helping with meal preparation. Father Călin Marincaș - dean, and Preoteasa Simona Marincaș prepared in advance all that was needed for the smooth organization of the entire action. Several members of the Hairy Hill / Boian community also stopped by and showed interest in the future project.

On Wednesday evening, His Grace Bishop Ioan Casian, Fathers Petre Busuioc and Lucian Azoiței, joined by Father Gheorghe Petrovan, celebrated the Holy Unction (Sacrament of Anointing) at the Dormition of the Mother of God Parish in Boian. Members of the community from the area and from the city of Edmonton attended the special prayer for the sick.

Over the course of the three days, those who visited the site learned more about the project and were encouraged to stay involved and, to the extent possible, to participate in the next stages of its development.