KHUST, UKRAINE: The Eparchy of Mukachevo observed the 70th. anniversary of the independence of Carpatho-Ukraine, a state that existed between March 15 and March 18, 1939, during the tulmultous period of the Second World War. It comprised territory that is now in the Transcarpathian Oblast of Ukraine and parts of Eastern Slovakia. The celebration occurred in the Cathedral Church of the Ascension of the Lord.

A service was held in honor of the heroes of Carpatho-Ukraine, including the pro-Ukrainian nationalist, the Rev. Avhustyn Voloshyn who served as president of the independent Ukrainian entity. It was celebrated by Bishop Milan Shashik, Apostolic Administrator of the Mukachevo Eparchy and attended by Ukrainian president Viktor Yushchenko and his wife, Kateryna. The president presented Vladyka Milan with several awards as well as a Ukrainian passport. Mr. Yushchenko also visited an area school named for President Voloyshyn and placed flowers at a memorial there. He also honored other Ukrainians of the Transcarpathian area with awards, including clergy of the eparchy and professors at the University of Uzhorod.

Sources:
RISU
Official Site of the President of Ukraine