UNWLAspotlights Ukrainian Christmas

by Julia Stojko

DEARBORN, Mich. - Chapter 58 of the Ukrainian National Women's League of America was invited to participate in a two-day program depicting the traditions of Ukrainian Christmas, offered in December 1995 by the Henry Ford Museum, Greenfield Village in Dearborn.

With Sofia Malinowski as coordinator, Chapter 58 responded with great enthusiasm to be the first Ukrainians involved in presenting a sample of Sviatyi Vechir foods, crafts and a Christmas tree as an educational program for two classes of students at this historical museum.

Thanks to the talents and efforts of Joanna Von Draginda Kulchesky, who chaired this and two other projects in 1995, Chapter 58 and its members presented a most successful program at the Henry Ford Museum, organizing and preparing the food, crafts, etc., so that a good representation of Ukrainian Christmas traditions was achieved.

The aroma of the 12 dishes and the colorfully decorated classroom brought many onlookers who complimented the members and asked many questions, the answers to which were available on specially printed notes.

Students enjoyed the experience of making Ukrainian tree decorations, such as painted cookies, golden walnut spiders and candies in special containers. A corner was devoted to a "didukh" and sheaves of wheat. Twelve dishes were shared, and each student went home carrying a bag featuring a Ukrainian dancer design with their own craft items inside.

The second program consisted of Ukrainian Christmas carols performed by St. Michael Ukrainian Catholic Church Choir of Dearborn under the direction of Olga Dobrivney-Solovey, Chapter 58 executive member.

UNWLA Chapter President Justine Nelligan and husband, Andrew, acted as "hospodari" (hosts) welcoming the carolers.

Included also was a presentation by the Echo Dancers, directed by Ms. Von Draginda Kulchesky, who explained the significance of all the symbols to a large audience in the main hall of the Henry Ford Museum.

In addition, the chapter actively participated in a successful 70th anniversary luncheon of the UNWLA and a fund-raising luncheon at the Ukrainian Village in Warren, Mich., organized in conjunction with the Henry Ford Health System to provide medical and technical assistance to the Lviv Oblast Hospital.

Chapter 58 is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, February 11, 1996, No. 6, Vol. LXIV

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