Which churches or religious organizations support Ukrainians?
The Ukrainian community in Calgary encompasses Orthodox, Greek Catholic, Protestant, and interfaith initiatives that have been a source of support for newcomers since the early days of the full-scale war. Below is a systematic overview of parishes and religious foundations, their assistance programs, contacts, and engagement formats.
1. Leading Ukrainian parishes
| Parish | Denomination | Key support initiatives | Contacts |
|---|---|---|---|
| St Vladimir’s Ukrainian Orthodox Sobor | Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada | - Welcome Centre: clothing, starter kits - Social Support Network: conversation clubs, mutual support groups - Volunteer coordination for Host Homes |
404 Meredith Rd NE ☎ 403-264-3437 |
| St Stephen Protomartyr Ukrainian Catholic Church | Ukrainian Greek Catholic | - Donation Center: furniture, dishes, clothing - Telegram @UAnewcomers_StStephens: job openings, housing - Host families and mentor pairs |
4903 45 St SW ☎ 403-249-4818 |
| Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (ABVM) | Ukrainian Greek Catholic | - Ridna Shkola and free ESL courses “Survival English” - Baking nights and fundraisers |
704 6 St NE ☎ 403-230-7013 |
| Ukrainian Evangelical Baptist Church | Evangelical Baptists | - Furniture Garage (CFN): free furniture - Ukrainian-language Bible study and adaptation groups |
333 Meredith Rd NE |
2. Partnership initiatives of other denominations
| Organization | Format of assistance | Examples of support |
|---|---|---|
| The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints | ESL courses “Survival English”; humanitarian kits | 4,000+ students; 500 “household kits” for newcomers |
| Catholic Diocese of Calgary | Fundraising through CNEWA; joint prayer services | > CAD 200,000 in donations (2022–2024) |
| Anglican–Lutheran Partnership | Ecumenical “Pray for Peace” evenings; food cards | St Barnabas Church (SE) |
3. Services offered by parishes
| Type of assistance | How it is provided | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary accommodation (Host-family) | Database of volunteer hosts, screening, selection | St Vladimir’s, St Stephen’s |
| Humanitarian supplies | Donation Centers: clothing, dishes, furniture | St Vladimir’s, St Stephen’s |
| ESL courses and conversation clubs | “Survival English,” volunteer lessons | ABVM, Bow Valley Chapel (LDS), St Vladimir’s |
| Psychosocial support | Art therapy, peer-to-peer groups, spiritual counseling | Social Support Network (St Vladimir’s) |
| Job search and career | Job boards, Telegram channels, Career Fairs | @UAnewcomers_StStephens; fairs at St Stephen’s |
4. How to get involved or get help
- Register at your parish center (St Vladimir’s or St Stephen’s) — you will be added to mailing lists and chat groups.
- Visit Agape Coffee (Sundays at 12:00 p.m.) — informal get-togethers over coffee and cookies.
- Follow the event calendars:
- UCC-Calgary Community Calendar (calgaryucc.ca/community-calendar).
- Telegram: @UAnewcomers_StStephens, @StVladsYYC.
- Fill out the volunteer form on the parish website if you would like to help.
5. Challenges and trends for 2025
- Housing: waiting list for Host Homes > 600 families.
- Funding: Free CUAET settlement services are available until March 31, 2025.
- Mental health: The waiting list for Ukrainian-speaking psychotherapists at AHS is 6–8 weeks; parishes are looking for volunteer psychologists.
Conclusion
Calgary has a strong network of Ukrainian Orthodox, Greek Catholic, and Protestant communities that, together with interfaith partners, provide:
- Housing and humanitarian aid
- Language courses and educational programs
- Psychosocial support
- Career services and mentoring
Parish initiatives provide not only spiritual but also material support, making the church in Calgary a true center of adaptation and solidarity.