With a deep sense of responsibility and devotion to the sacred mission of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA, the members of the Audit Committee gathered at the Spiritual Center of the Church in South Bound Brook, New Jersey, on June 17-18, 2025. This annual meeting is a vital component of the Church's constitutional life, fulfilling the mandate to examine, verify, control, and report on the financial health and stewardship of the central administration and affiliated Church organizations.

The significance of this work extends beyond numbers and spreadsheets. It is a witness to the Church’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and responsible stewardship of the gifts entrusted to it by the faithful. Through the careful examination of financial records, reports, and practices, the Audit Committee safeguards the integrity of the ministries and mission of the UOC of the USA.

The work of the Audit Committee reaches across the breadth of the Church’s ministry. Included in their review are the financial operations of:

• The Consistory of the UOC of the USA
• The Ukrainian Orthodox League (UOL)
• St. Andrew Society
• All Saints Camp
• St. Sophia Ukrainian Orthodox Theological Seminary
• Guardians of the Metropolia
• And other charitable and spiritual entities of the Church

These institutions are not mere administrative appendages but expressions of the living ministry of Christ’s Church. From forming future priests and theologians, to nurturing our youth at camp, to offering humanitarian aid to Ukraine and other regions in need, these organizations operate as extensions of the Church’s apostolic mission.

The Audit Committee, composed of dedicated and experienced stewards of the Church, approached their work with prayer, professionalism, and heartfelt care for the faithful. Among those who offered their service during this meeting were:

Rev. James CAIRNS
Rev. Andriy MATLAK
Mrs. Suzanne Marie MATHIEU
Mrs. Tamara HOST
Mr. Wolodymyr KATOLIK

Their meticulous review and thorough analysis of the financial documents reflect their understanding of the sacred trust placed in their hands. In a spirit of collaboration and responsibility, they prepared their findings and recommendations that will serve as the foundation for the upcoming 24th Regular Sobor – the Clergy-Laity Congress of the UOC of the USA, where faithful from all corners of the country will gather to prayerfully review and plan the future of the Church.

A special note of heartfelt gratitude is extended to Protopresbyter Stephen Hutnick, Treasurer of the Consistory, and Mrs. Natalia Honcharenko, Assistant Treasurer. Their tireless dedication, organization, and transparency provided a strong foundation for the Committee’s work. Their stewardship exemplifies the spirit of selfless service that characterizes the leadership of the Church.

During the course of the meeting, the members of the Audit Committee were blessed with the presence ofHis Eminence Metropolitan Antony, Prime Hierarch of the UOC of the USA, and His Eminence Archbishop Daniel, President of the Consistory and spiritual father of the Western Eparchy. Their visit was not a mere formality, but a sincere and heartfelt expression of support and gratitude for the Committee’s dedication.

Archbishop Daniel reflected: “Accountability is not only an act of service - it is an act of love. Every dollar entrusted to the Church by the faithful is a seed, and it is our responsibility to plant it wisely, nurture it faithfully, and offer its fruit back to God in thanksgiving.”

As the Church prepares for its 24th SOBOR - Clergy-Laity Congress, the Audit Committee’s report will serve as a vital tool for discernment and planning. It will empower the faithful and clergy alike to participate in a transparent and open dialogue about the life and direction of the UOC of the USA.

In this season of preparation, we give thanks for those who quietly labor behind the scenes, ensuring that the sacred mission of the Church remains faithful to its calling and accountable to its people. Their work reflects the wisdom of the Apostle Paul:“Moreover it is required in stewards that a man be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2)

May God bless the work of the Audit Committee and all who serve the Church with wisdom, integrity, and love. Through their efforts, the light of Christ continues to shine - faithfully and transparently - from the heart of the Spiritual Center of the Church in South Bound Brook, NJ to the ends of the earth.