At St. Volodymyr Catholic Church in Santa Clara, California, a unique Ukrainian iconostasis was blessed. Crafted from wood and inspired by the ornaments of the Ukrainian embroidered shirt (vyshyvanka) and the symbolism of Prince Volodymyr, the iconostasis has become a spiritual and cultural sign of Ukraine’s presence within the Ukrainian community of Silicon Valley. The project was carried out under the spiritual guidance of Fr. Roman Bobesiuk and Bishop Benedict Aleksiychuk, and the iconostasis itself has become an example of a living, united Church in the diaspora.
Vilni Media learned about the story from one of the project’s authors, Iryna Kulchytska. The iconostasis journey began with her family. Mykola Zelenyak and their daughters, Gabriella and Isabella, joined the work as well — turning the project into not only a creative experience, but also a living lesson in faith, tradition, and responsibility to the community. Iryna is a product and technology development expert in Silicon Valley with more than 20 years of experience in the United States. She consults leading technology companies on launching digital products and implementing innovative business models. The family also runs its own business.
The Story of This Iconostasis Is a Story of Service
Spiritual guidance played a vital role throughout the entire process. The work was carried out with the blessing and continual pastoral care of the parish pastor, Fr. Roman Bobesiuk, and His Excellency Bishop Benedict Aleksiychuk. Through this close collaboration, the artistic vision unfolded in harmony with theological meaning and the sacred tradition of the Church.
“The artistic language of the iconostasis draws its inspiration from the Ukrainian vyshyvanka—a powerful symbol of national memory and spiritual continuity. Its ornamental patterns carry prayers, the lived experience of generations, the pain of loss, and the enduring strength of love. These profound meanings were translated into the structure of the iconostasis itself: into the rhythm of its lines, the balance of proportions, the symmetry, and the unity of the overall composition,” Kulchytska added.
According to her, transforming traditional embroidery into the language of wood carving required long, meticulous process. Forms were revised time and again—deepened, simplified, and reworked—until a delicate balance was achieved between authenticity and contemporary expression. A central place in the composition is held by the carved trident of Saint Equal-to-the-Apostles Prince Volodymyr, recreated from historical models dating back to the era of Kyivan Rus.
“The entire iconostasis is made of wood — a material that demands great precision and patience. Work on every detail came with technical challenges, corrections, and at times damage to elements. The project was physically exhausting and difficult to execute, but shared responsibility and faith in the result made it possible to bring it to completion,” Kulchytska added.
Another integral part of this service was the printing of the icons, which the family also completed themselves. In this way, the entire journey — from the first concept to the finished iconostasis — was carried out by the same hands, guided not only by professional skill, but by deep reverence for the sacred.
The installation of the iconostasis marked yet another meaningful stage of the project. It became a collective effort of the parish community, with volunteers working late into the night to prepare the church on the eve of its consecration. This shared labor became a living expression of the Church itself— united, sacrificial, and deeply connected.
"Heartfelt gratitude is extended to all who supported this project through prayer, donations, and personal involvement. It was through the combined efforts of many that the iconostasis became a reality. Special thanks are offered to Fr. Roman for his pastoral wisdom and unwavering spiritual guidance. Sincere appreciation goes to Volodymyr Chvyl for his professional installation work and steadfast endurance under challenging conditions. We also thank Bohdan Kovalchuk for his careful and dedicated work installing the icons, as well as Mykhailo Bolzovskyi, Ivan and Alehandra Buha for their selfless assistance late into the night. May the Lord bless everyone who contributed to this sacred endeavor," Iryna Kulchytska shared.
The Project’s Culmination
On October 19, 2025, when, during the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, His Excellency Bishop Benedict consecrated the new iconostasis and conferred priestly ordination upon Deacon Oleh Zatvarskyi. On that day, the Eparchy of St. Nicholas received another devoted servant of the Church.
“Today, this iconostasis speaks more eloquently than words. It stands as a testament to the truth that Ukrainian spiritual tradition knows no borders. Wherever there are people committed to preserving their faith and culture, that tradition remains alive — even thousands of miles from Ukraine — bridging the past, the present, and generations yet to come,” Iryna Kulchytska concluded.
Photos provided by Iryna Kulchytska
Prepared by: Inna Mikhno