This Sunday, families across the world come together to celebrate Easter. It is an important holiday for Ukrainians as well, filled with traditions and culture. Today, the Ukrainian community in Hampton Roads gathered at the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church to attend the Easter service and unite together in celebration. Together with fellow Ukrainians across the ocean, Ukrainians in Hampton Roads baked Paska (traditional Easter bread), made pysanky (hand-decorated eggs), and prayed together during the Easter service.
And yet, we remember that the Russian war in Ukraine continues. Despite the Russian appeals to peace, they continue to bomb civilian targets, destroying homes, schools, hospitals, and churches. Civilians are killed every day. Children are being kidnapped, re-educated, and denied their language and culture. Christians are being persecuted by Russians in the occupied territories of Ukraine as clergy members are being imprisoned and executed, churches demolished, and religious gatherings banned.
We urge you to stand with Ukraine this Easter. Continue praying, supporting, and advocating. For every one of the more than 19,546 Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. For every Christian who is being targeted by Russia. For every Ukrainian family that celebrates Easter despite the continuous Russian attacks.
Happy Easter - Зі святом Великодня! 💙💛
Christ has risen - Христос Воскрес! ⛪
Upcoming events
Please join visit the Ukrainian Tent at the Norfolk NATO Festival International Village next Saturday, April 26th. The event will take place in Town Point Park, Norfolk, starting at 11:30. We also strongly encourage you to wear national Ukrainian clothing - vyshyvanka or Ukrainian t-shirts - and come to see the NATO parade starting at 10 am in downtown Norfolk.
We will provide more updates on the event by clicking here, and you can learn more about the Norfolk NATO Festival International Village here.