Students celebrate Easter the Ukrainian way
Posted April 7, 2023 12:23 pm.
Last Updated April 9, 2023 5:01 pm.
Get ready for some EGG-citing fun as students at Immaculate Heart of Mary School (IHMS) are celebrating Easter the Ukrainian way.
“We’re a Ukrainian school, Ukrainian Catholic school, one of the very rich traditions that we have is writing pysanky or Ukrainian Easter eggs,” explained Rod Picklyk, principal of IHMS.
Students are hopping into the Easter spirit and painting Ukrainian Easter eggs along with other Ukrainian traditions in preparation for the holiday.
“Especially this year, with everything happening in Ukraine even going back to last year at Easter time, teaching the children about rich Ukrainian culture and that these traditions are happening all over the world, it’s so important,” said Picklyk.
Immaculate Heart of Mary School (IHMS) are celebrating Easter the Ukrainian way. (Photo Credit: CityNews)
The school has taken in more than 60 refugee students who fled the war from Ukraine. For one student, celebrating Easter brings back some fond memories.
“For me Easter is part of my culture because I like Easter,” said student Vlad Abramiak.
Abramiak says the best part of the holiday is spending time with the ones you love.
“With family I’m thinking I’m in home, I’m feeling I’m in Ukraine, in my city and it’s happy to me.”
“They can still experience these beautiful traditions and rituals,” added Picklyk. “Even though they are so far from what their normal home would be.”
