Holy Cross Province, Warsaw, Poland

The Basilian Sisters began their mission in Przemyśl, Poland, in 1902, supporting the education of Greek Catholic girls. Led by Metropolitan Sheptytsky and M. Josaphata Theodorovych, the community grew until Soviet repression during and after WWII dissolved religious communities, imprisoned Sisters, and confiscated property.

Many fled or were exiled. In 1958, the Sisters reestablished themselves in Lubomierz, later serving disabled children in Janowice Wielkie. Despite communist obstacles, they expanded to Zalesie Górne and Przemyśl, becoming a Vice-Province in 1971 and a Province in 2003. Their apostolate includes catechesis, parish work, vestment-making, retreats, and support for Caritas. Vocations increased, and houses opened in Gorlice and Warsaw.

They celebrated major Church anniversaries and participated in international efforts for intercultural unity. Since 2022, they’ve aided Ukrainian refugees amid war. Faithful to prayer and Eastern tradition, they continue serving with love and resilience, witnessing God’s presence through liturgy and service.
They began their ministry among the Ukrainian faithful, establishing monasteries in Melbourne (1970) and Adelaide (1977). Today, they continue their mission in North Melbourne and Sydney. Rooted in prayer and dedication, their apostolate includes catechesis, sacramental preparation, youth choirs, daycare, pastoral care for the elderly, and preserving Ukrainian traditions.

Their service helps maintain the Byzantine Catholic faith and cultural identity of Ukrainian families in Australia. Through decades of quiet, faithful work, the Basilian Sisters have profoundly influenced generations, nurturing spiritual life and community within both the Ukrainian and wider Australian society.