Michael Kuchmiak

Michael Kuchmiak, born on February 5, 1923, in Obertyn, Ukraine, was a prominent figure in the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. His journey in the clergy led him to become a bishop, serving with dedication and commitment throughout his life.

On March 8, 1988, he was appointed as the auxiliary bishop of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia by the Synod of Bishops of the Ukrainian Catholic Church and Pope John Paul II. His episcopal ordination took place on April 27, 1988, with notable figures such as Stephen Sulyk, Maxim Hermaniuk, and Innocent Lotocky participating in the ceremony.

Kuchmiak's pastoral work included a significant tenure as the pastor of the Ukrainian Catholic National Shrine of the Holy Family in Washington, D.C. However, his leadership extended beyond this role, as he was appointed the Apostolic Exarch of the Apostolic Exarchate for Ukrainians in Great Britain on July 11, 1989.

After years of service, he reached the age of retirement, and on April 5, 2002, the Pope accepted his resignation from the position of Apostolic Exarch. Michael Kuchmiak passed away on August 26, 2008, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, leaving behind a legacy of faith and service.