In Chicago, Illinois, the students of the Ukrainian Studies School named after Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky celebrated Christmas within the embrace of their school family. Students and teachers organized festive events for the New Year holidays, engaging not only the families of the students but the entire school community.
This was reported by the Ukrainian-centric newspaper Surma, referencing an article by Mariia Mykhalevych, a teacher at the Ukrainian Studies School named after Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky.
According to Mykhalevych, the celebration began with a prayer for Ukraine and the screening of video segments about the events currently unfolding in the country. In particular, the festivities included videos depicting the war and the work of Ukrainian defenders who, despite hardships, continue to uphold Christmas traditions. One segment showcased soldiers celebrating Christmas Eve with volunteers, reminiscing about their homes.
“When they sang carols in the video, the audience joined in with the soldiers, singing with deep conviction: Ukraine, which fights, which does not give up, which carols, prays, and believes—will undoubtedly triumph, be reborn, and flourish. Our children always pray for this because, as our spiritual mentor Father Mykola Buryadnyk says, a child’s faith and prayer are the strongest,” Mykhalevych shared. Марія Михалевич.
During the event, students presented a variety of Christmas programs, and the celebration was filled with creative performances by students from all grades, including a Nativity play, Malanka, carols, and musical performances featuring the dulcimer, violin, and saxophone. Bright costumes and improvisation added to the festive atmosphere. A notable highlight was a Nativity performance by the Vyshyvanka Dance School, which also includes students of the Ukrainian Studies School, and a heartfelt family carol by singer BARVA – Tetiana Baryliak.
“Christmas, as always, filled us all with the incomparable light of love. With this light and with sincere faith in God's blessing, we march toward Ukraine's victory, in which we wholeheartedly believe, and toward the next Christmas. It's no coincidence that one of our blessings says: ‘May God grant us to see another year from now! Christ is born!’” Mykhalevych concluded.
Author: Inna Mikhno