Centenary Celebration of St. Peter & St. Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church of Bodnari

In 1906 the parishioners of St. Peter & St. Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church built their first log church on the N.W. corner of Theodore Bodnar's land.

As time went on the congregation increased in size and the log church required a lot of work. Thus, our great grandparents and grandparents were faced with a dilemma -- do extensive work to the small, log church or construct a larger church.

In June of 1936 they decide to build a new church at a new location presently located on the S.E. corner of Theodore Bodnar's land. (This is the same quarter section of land.)

Alex Baran of Saskatoon was the architect, Yosef Yanushewsky was the initial carpenter, and Alex Sembalerus of Vonda helped to complete the church.

With very little money, but a lot of sweat, toil and determination, our forefathers began the construction of the church the last week of August and completed the church at the end of September -- a feat which is difficult to match today with our large equipment and technology.

The cost of constructing this church was $3000. (Keep in mind that this was during the depression years.)

This church is located in the RM of Grant of Vonda, Saskatchewan. SW16-40-28-W2 five miles east of Smuts on grid 767 off highway 41.

After many years of providing the parishioners with their spiritual needs, this church requires extensive repairs for its restoration. The elements of nature have taken its toll on the church.

Recently the parishioners of Bodnari have undertaken this extensive restoration project which will cost approximately $60,000.

The restoration comprises of new windows and doors, new shingles, and a paint job. The siding was totally renailed, and the cracked /broken siding has been replaced.

In the spring of 2006 the old paint must be stripped and the siding will be primed and painted/stained. The windows and the shingles have been replaced. As well, the landscaping has been completed and the trees will be planted in the spring of 2006.

On August 11, 2003 St. Peter & St. Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church of Bodnari was designated as a "heritage site". The parish will receive some financial assistance from the Heritage Fund. However, we, the parishioners will have to raise additional funds to complete the restoration project.

We are appealing to all former parishioners and relatives of former parishioners to assist us in this restoration. As well, if there are others who would be generous and kind enough to help us financially, this would be greatly appreciated. Tax receipts will be issued for income tax purposes.

On Sunday, July 9, 2006, we will be celebrating the Centenary of St. Peter & St. Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church of Bodnari. This will serve as a homecoming and celebration of the restoration of the church.

Our great grandfathers and grandfathers have done their part by providing for us. Now the onus is upon us to ensure that we maintain the operation and the existence of our church.

Itinerary for Sunday, July 9, 2006

100 year celebration of St. Peter & St. Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church of Bodnari

Welcoming of Bishop Wiwchar -- 9:45 AM
Divine Liturgy -- 10:00 AM
Blessing of water, tree planting, Cemetery

Banquet & Social (Vonda Parish Hall) -- 1:30 PM

Advance Banquet Tickets: Adults: $15 / person, 2 for $25, 12 & under $6, 5 & under Free
At the Door: Adults $15, 12 & under $6, 5& under Free.

For tickets and information contact: Bernie Bodnar at 306-382-1647, Adeline at 306-943-4680, Robert at 306-654-4815, Ron at 306-654-4402

Special request: Any family member(s) of present and former parishioners who may have photos of the original church (1906) and construction of the present church (1936) please contact Bernie.

If you are interested in making a contribution send your gift to St. Peter & St. Paul Church of Bodnari, PO Box 56, Prud'homme, Sask. S0K 3K0

Thank you for your consideration and gift. May God bless you with health and happiness and keep you in his care.

Bernie Bodnar
President of St. Peter & St. Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church of Bodnari.