Calgary-based Ukrainians prepare for sombre Easter celebrations amid war
Many Calgary-based Ukrainians are preparing for their Easter this Sunday, April 24, which also marks two months of war in Ukraine.
“I think it's going be quite emotional for everyone, including myself,” said Father Patrick Yamniuk of St. Vladimir's Ukrainian Orthodox Sobor.
While Sunday should be a joyous celebration, this year, it will likely be somber.
“I'm sure for the refugees, they will be thinking about their families at home that aren't going to be able to come to church,” said Yamniuk. “There'll be those that have lost loved ones in Ukraine (and) they'll be thinking about their recent loss, the sorrow and will be grieving at the same time.”
Yamniuk says his congregation has been welcoming those seeking asylum into the community.
“The church is becoming the adopted family for these people,” he said. “This is a place where they can come to feel comfort, (and where) there are other people that speak their language.”
When the war began, St. Vladimir's created a Ukrainian humanitarian aid committee to help home refugees, provide support and give out basic supplies to those coming to Calgary.
“I’m an immigrant, so I remember myself coming to Canada and thinking, ‘What would I need first as essentials?” said Olga Matsula, who is on the committee. “On top of not having necessities, we also have some ability to give people hope, to give them comfort that they’re wanted and welcome in Canada.”
St. Vladimir's is expecting more refugees requiring their services this month and are continuing to collect donations. They are also asking local businesses, if they have any employment opportunities that would be suitable for newcomers, to contact them.
HELPING PETS IN NEED
Calgarians have not only stepped up to help Ukrainians, but they are helping their animals as well.
“I just didn’t want to sit here and feel helpless,” said Sue Ghebari, the owner of 17th Ave Thrift Store. “We really want to help some of the animals, and the people who own animals or who have animals that they had to leave behind.”
Parachutes for Pets, and 17th Ave Thrift Store, teamed up to collect donations. Melissa David, the founder of the charity, says there is a high demand for veterinary care supplies and pet food.
David has been in contact with four animal welfare organizations in Ukraine that are helping abandoned and injured animals, along with pets with owners seeking safety.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
LIVE SOON Police arrest 3 in killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar
Three people have been arrested and charged in the killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
BREAKING Foreign meddling 'did not affect' overall federal election results: inquiry report
Foreign interference by China did not affect the overall results of the 2019 and 2021 general elections won by Justin Trudeau's Liberals, a federal commission of inquiry has found.
Police officer hit by driver of fleeing vehicle in Toronto incident caught on video
York Regional Police say they are continuing to search for a suspect in an auto theft investigation who was captured on video running over a police officer in Toronto last month.
Why your airfare may be getting more expensive
Skyrocketing airfare prices are linked to heightened competition and rising food and fuel, according to the CAA.
WATCH LIVE Funeral today for broadcasting legend and voice of 'Hockey Night in Canada' Bob Cole
A funeral is being held today for hockey broadcasting legend Bob Cole in his hometown of St. John's, N.L.
TD worst-case scenario more likely after drug money laundering allegations: analyst
TD Bank Group could be hit with more severe penalties than previously expected, says a banking analyst after a report that the investigation it faces in the U.S. is tied to laundering illicit fentanyl profits.
New weight-loss drug Wegovy not a 'magic bullet,' doctor warns
As Wegovy becomes available to Canadians starting Monday, a medical expert is cautioning patients wanting to use the drug to lose weight that no medication is a ''magic bullet,' and the new medication is meant particularly for people who meet certain criteria related to obesity and weight.
Drew Carey is never quitting 'The Price Is Right'
Drew Carey took over as host of 'The Price Is Right' and hopes he’s there for life. 'I'm not going anywhere,' he told 'Entertainment Tonight' of the job he took over from longtime host Bob Barker in 2007.
Who is Hope Hicks, longtime Trump aide who is testifying in N.Y. hush money case?
Hope Hicks, once a longtime trusted aide in Donald Trump’s inner circle, is testifying Friday in the New York hush money trial after being subpoenaed.