Blessed Vitaliy Bayrak
Blessed
Feast Day: May 16
Birth: February 24, 1907
Biography
Blessed Vitaliy Bayrak, also known as Vitalii Bairak, Vitalij Bajrak, Volodomyr Bairak, and Vitale Vladimiro Bajrak, was a Greek Catholic clergyman and member of the Basilian Order of Saint Josaphat monastery. He was born on 24 February 1907 in Shvaikivtsy, Ternopil’s’ka oblast’, Ukraine.
On 4 September 1924, Vitaliy Bayrak joined the Basilian Order of Saint Josaphat monastery, dedicating his life to serving God and the Church. After years of rigorous training and spiritual formation, he was ordained as a priest on 13 August 1933. Throughout his ministry, he exhibited dedication, humility, and a strong devotion to his faith.
In 1941, Father Bayrak was appointed as the Prior of Drohobych, a position that allowed him to provide pastoral care and guidance to the local community. However, his peaceful service was abruptly interrupted on 17 September 1945, when he was arrested by the NKVD for his unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith.
During his captivity, Father Bayrak faced immense hardship and persecution. On 13 November 1945, his property was confiscated, and he was unjustly sentenced to eight years in a forced labor camp. Despite the challenging conditions he endured, he remained steadfast in his beliefs, never wavering in his dedication to God and the Church.
Blessed Vitaliy Bayrak is celebrated as a martyr, as he ultimately sacrificed his own life for his faith. He endured physical and emotional torments, refusing to renounce his beliefs and standing firm in the face of adversity. The details regarding his death or the exact date are not available at this time.
Although not yet recognized as a saint, Blessed Vitaliy Bayrak is venerated for his exemplary life and martyrdom. His feast day is celebrated on 16 May, although some calendars indicate 21 April as an alternative date for his commemoration.
His courageous and unwavering commitment to God and the Catholic Church serves as an inspiration to all who seek to live out their faith with integrity, even in the most challenging circumstances.