Holy Ascension Cemetery & Chapel, Hubbard / Goodeve, Saskatchewan
Tucked in the rural prairie of East‑Central Saskatchewan, the Holy Ascension Chapel and adjacent cemetery are quiet yet stirring landmarks of faith, heritage, and perseverance. Located outside of Hubbard, Saskatchewan, this Ukrainian Orthodox site has witnessed both flourishing community life and long periods of silence.
The chapel and cemetery were established to serve the Ukrainian Orthodox settlers of the area. The cemetery’s first recorded burials date back to 1922, reflecting a young immigrant community laying roots in a new land. Over the decades, it became the final resting place for many local families, including pioneer priests who were central to establishing Orthodox Christian life in the region.
Like many rural churches, Holy Ascension saw dwindling congregations as people moved to larger centres. For about 30 years, the chapel was abandoned. During this time, it stood as a silent testament to the past — the cemetery still bearing witness through its graves, though with fewer services. By 1995, there were around 25 burials recorded there.
In 1997, however, a remarkable act of revival took place: after restoration efforts by members of nearby Orthodox communities (notably St. Mark’s Church in Yorkton and families of the buried priests), the first Divine Liturgy since the period of abandonment was celebrated by Bishop Seraphim. This marked a renewed commitment to preserving both spiritual heritage and community memory.
Holy Ascension is more than a chapel and cemetery: it is a locus for local identity, memory, and faith. It embodies the story of Ukrainian immigration and settlement in Saskatchewan — pioneers who built churches, held services in fields and humble buildings, and sought to keep their traditions alive across vast distances. The presence of pioneer priests buried there further anchors it in the spiritual history of the region.
The chapel’s restoration is a reminder that heritage preserved is heritage that can continue to shape lives: a restored building means restored services, gatherings, and a renewed sense of connection for descendants and neighbours alike.
