Sister Lydia Anna Sawka, OSBM Celebrate 25^th Anniversary

Sisters of St. Basil the Great Fox Chase Manor, PA—16 July 2009

Twenty-five years ago, a young woman made a most momentous decision. She decided to listen to the small, still voice of the Lord, when He called, “Follow me.” On Saturday, June 13, 2009, this young woman, now Sister Lydia Anna Sawka, OSBM, celebrated her 25th Jubilee. As a student at Immaculate Conception High School in Hamtramck, MI, where several of her teachers were Sisters from the Jesus, Lover of Humanity Province in Fox Chase Manor, PA, Sister Lydia first gained an appreciation for the dedication and work of the Sisters of the Order of Saint Basil the Great.

This experience stayed with her, lasting through the everyday challenges of life, until she felt she could no longer ignore the call of the Lord. Even though Sister Lydia was very involved in her parish, she had organized a nursery school, worked with youth as a Plast (Ukrainian Scouting organization) troop leader, and taught at Immaculate Conception Elementary school for seven years, something was still missing. Once she entered the Order, Sister Lydia felt that last part of her was complete and fully committed herself to a life of ministry as a praying, healing, life-giving presence.

Throughout her tenure as a Sister, Sister Lydia has ministered and served in various locations. She first taught at Saint Josaphat School in Parma Ohio, then St. Nicholas School in Chicago, IL. While in Chicago, Sister Lydia also served as Vocation Directress and Directress of Youth for the Ukrainian Catholic Diocese of Chicago. Because of her drive and dedication shown in Parma and Chicago, Sister Lydia was selected to serve in Rome, Italy as General Secretary of the Order. After her time abroad, she returned to teaching, this time at Immaculate Conception Elementary School, in her hometown of Hamtramck, MI. For the eight last years, Sister Lydia has been serving as the personal Secretary to Metropolitan Archbishop Stefan Soroka. In addition to her many duties, she has been called upon to be a translator for Chapter meetings of the Sisters of the Order of Saint Basil the Great in Rome, Italy. One of her greatest passions and joys, Sister Lydia enjoys working with the Ukrainian Catholic youth of greater Philadelphia through SUM and Plast.

Sister Lydia’s Jubilee was filled with a great deal of joy and much celebrating. Nearly all of her family, her sister Nadia, her uncle, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives traveled from Hamtramck, MI, in addition to her many friends in the greater Philadelphia area, to share and take part in the ceremonies of this very special day.

Most Rev. Stefan Soroka, Metropolitan-Archbishop of Philadelphia celebrated the Divine Liturgy with Most Rev. John Bura, Auxiliary Bishop, Rev. Msgr. Peter Waslo, Rev. Philip Sandrick, OSBM, and Rev. George Worschak serving as concelebrants. Sister Lydia’s nieces and nephews also served as readers throughout the memorable service, bringing together the two most important elements of Sister Lydia’s life - love of God and love of family!

The Sisters of the Order of Saint Basil the Great are a worldwide religious community. They respond to the needs of God's people today, embodying the welcoming presence of the Lord.  In leading uniquely effective and innovative ministries in education, spiritual direction, evangelization, and lay collaboration, they bring the rich traditions and mysteries of the Eastern Church to those they encounter.  For more information concerning this rich heritage, please call 215.379.3998 or visit us at www.stbasils.com .