A priest blesses the congregation with water. Photo: Community News
On Sunday, April 20, countless worshippers gathered around churches in Odessa to celebrate Easter and bless their Easter baskets. This year's festivities were held in a calm and uplifting atmosphere. People brought Easter baskets filled with cakes, dyed eggs, and homemade dishes to the churches. After the blessing, families headed home to celebrate the Resurrection of Christ.
Journalists from Community News attended the blessing ceremonies in Odessa and its surroundings.
Blessing of Easter baskets in Odessa
Easter is one of the most significant and joyful holidays in the Orthodox calendar. This year, residents of Odessa began gathering near churches early in the morning to attend the services and the blessing of their Easter baskets.
Long lines formed outside churches in the city center and suburbs, with families holding baskets adorned with towels, containing cakes, painted eggs, sausages, cheese, butter, and salt. People remained calm and orderly throughout the event.
"We are all at war..."
In the churches of Odessa, festive services began early in the morning. A special sermon was delivered by Father Vasyl Vyrozub, who spoke to the faithful with profound words about the value of freedom and true unity.
"Today, we are all at war. Soldiers with weapons, volunteers, sailors, medics, teachers, and even children drawing yellow and blue hearts in shelters", — the priest addressed the congregation.
