Easter in Ukraine (some re-posting from returned missionary Marlie Arnell & Pres. Kumferman)

Orthodox Easter in Ukraine is today, April 8th. Spring has just begun-just in time for Kaeleigh's arrival! With warmer temperatures, everything is starting to blossom and come alive. This is the biggest holiday of the year for Ukrainians, where families spend time together and celebrate. 

Ukrainians call these Easter eggs pysanka, or plural: pysanky. They are decorated with traditional Ukrainian folk designs. They write or inscribe on the smaller eggs with beeswax. The larger eggs on display are more likely painted.

These pictures were taken yesterday, April 7, 2018 in the center of Kyiv. 




















(Pres. K, from Facebook:) Downtown Kyiv, Orthodox Easter decorations 2018. In the past they have asked local groups and organizations to paint the eggs, but this year they turned it into an art fair, all done by local artists. Included for the first time were painted bunnies to go along with the decorated eggs.

Here is a traditional Ukrainian Easter basket that people gather for their feast, after they take it to Ukrainian Orthodox Church for service. A priest has to pass by with a brush in his hand and sanctify it with holy water and the people that stand by it. The service always starts on a Saturday night and is being served all day on Sunday. **These pictures were taken this past weekend in Kyiv for the Easter holiday**