By Ingrid McTaggart, Catholic Diocese of Toowoomba
The Catholic Diocese of Toowoomba will welcome His Eminence Mykola Cardinal Bychok CSsR, Australia’s Cardinal and Bishop for Ukrainian Catholics in Australia and New Zealand, for his first visit to Toowoomba on 26–27 March.
Cardinal Bychok’s visit marks a significant milestone for the Diocese, and his two‑day program will include an in conversation event at both a dinner (26 March) and a breakfast (27 March), hosted at the Cathedral Function Centre.
Across the two events, Cardinal Bychok will reflect on key moments of his faith journey, from worship under Soviet suppression in western Ukraine, to ministry in Siberia, and to his current leadership role in Australia’s diverse Catholic landscape. He is also expected to offer pastoral insights into the ongoing suffering caused by the war in Ukraine and the resilience of displaced families, communities, and churches.
Funds raised from the dinner and breakfast will support the restoration of the historic leadlight windows of St Patrick’s Cathedral, as preparations begin for the Diocese’s centenary celebrations in 2029.
Bishop Ken Howell said the Diocese is honoured to host the Cardinal for this significant occasion. “His Eminence’s visit is a blessing for our community and an opportunity to encounter a faith story shaped by extraordinary courage, hope and service. These events will allow the people of our Diocese to hear firsthand a perspective that spans continents and generations.”
Cardinal Bychok said he is looking forward to the visit, “I look forward to visiting Toowoomba, meeting the people of the Diocese, and learning about the restoration of St Patrick’s Cathedral. I’m eager to share my journey from Ukraine to Australia, reflect on the Church’s resilience, and explore how sacred spaces and art renew faith across generations.”
The Cardinal’s conversations will be facilitated by journalist and former Courier‑Mail editor Michael Crutcher.
Tickets close 5pm Friday 13 March and are available at www.twb.catholic.org.au/cathedral