FATHER CHRISTOPHER JULIAN ZAJAC

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FATHER CHRISTOPHER JULIAN ZAJAC Fr. Christopher Julian Zajac, OSBM died on October 9, 2004 in Vancouver, at the age of 66. He was born on January 4, 1938, in Montreal, QC, to parents Mykola Zajac and Janina Robaszewska. After a brief teaching career, he entered the Basilian Novitiate at Mundare, AB, on January 13, 1961. After studying philosophy and theology, at St. Pauls University, Ottawa, he made his solemn profession of perpetual vows on January 26, 1967. He was ordained a priest, on June 15, 1969 and served as parish priest and assistant at the parishes of St. Mary in Vancouver (1969-1972; 2004), St. Basil in Edmonton (1972-1979; 1988-1996), St. Nicholas (1979-1982; 1996-2004) and St. Basil (1982-1988) in Winnipeg and as a consultor of the Basilian Order in Canada, from 1979-1982. Fr. Chris continued to teach young people in parishes and at summer camps in Quebec and Alberta. During his 35 years of priestly service, he served as chaplain to the Ukrainian Catholic Womens League, parish mens clubs, the Knights of Columbus and the Apostleship of Prayer. Fr. Christopher was a very gifted person, well read, creative, a writer of poetry and of many articles, spiritual talks and sermons. In particular, he was a regular contributor to the Basilian Orders English-language Beacon magazine. He also possessed a pleasant sense of humour. He was very dedicated to his priestly service, especially in ministering to the sick. He is survived by his sister Irene Yaremowich of Ottawa, ON, his brother Romeo (Mary) of Montreal, many nieces and nephews, and the members of the Basilian Order. He was predeceased by his parents, Nicholas and Janina; and his sister Alice. Funeral services took place on October 13, at St. Marys in Vancouver and October 14-15, at St. Basils in Edmonton. Interment followed at Sts. Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church Cemetery, in Mundare, AB. A memorial Divine Liturgy was celebrated on Saturday, October 16, at St. Nicholas Church, Winnipeg. See www.stnicholaschurch.ca for a fuller biography and eulogy.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 20, 2004