“Wonders of Christmas” Opens Near the Patriarchal Cathedral: A Festive Space for Children in Kyiv
On December 5, on the eve of St. Nicholas Day, the Wonders of Christmas festive venue was opened near the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ in Kyiv. The venue offers entertainment for children and families, starting with a Christmas adventure that includes meeting St. Nicholas at his residence.
At the opening celebration, Father Lubomyr Yavorsky, Patriarchal Economist, emphasized that in these dark times of war, everyone—especially children—needs light, hope, warmth, and love. “This Christmas venue is a place where warmth and joy will be shared,” he said.
The event included the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree.
The festive zone at the Patriarchal Cathedral was established with the blessing of His Beatitude Sviatoslav, the Father and Head of the UGCC. The project is supported by the Metropolia Humanitarian Aid Fund in the United States, Metropolitan Borys Gudziak, the Apostolic Exarchate in Germany and Scandinavia, and Bishop Bohdan Dzyurakh.
On the eve of St. Nicholas Day, children of fallen heroes visited the residence. In the future, the Christmas venue will welcome children from internally displaced families and orphans.
In his residence, St. Nicholas listens to children’s dreams and wishes, bringing joy to their hearts. The cathedral also features interactive zones that immerse visitors in a world of fantasy, as well as theatrical performances that promise unforgettable emotions. Fairy-tale markets and attractions contribute to the festive atmosphere, even amid challenging times.
St. Nicholas’ residence will remain open until December 15, after which the Nativity Mystery will take place on the cathedral premises. The Wonders of Christmas winter space will remain open until January 5, 2025, inviting Kyiv residents and visitors to enjoy the festive spirit and discover the richness of Ukrainian traditions.
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“The enemy seeks to make children cry, but we will do everything to make them happy”: UGCC Head at the opening of St. Nicholas Residence in Lviv
A similar initiative began earlier, on December 1, when the residence of St. Nicholas was opened at the Patriarchal House in Lviv. His Beatitude Sviatoslav attended the event, highlighting the importance of preserving the festive spirit for Ukrainian children despite the hardships of war.
“We celebrate this Christmas season and the presence of St. Nicholas during difficult times as the war steals childhood and joy from children. The enemy seek to make children cry, but we, here in our home, will do everything to make them happy. No one can take the Christmas holiday from our children when we are united,” the Patriarch emphasized.
The UGCC Department for Information
