Parma parish sponsors summer Church School (10/20/96)

Parma parish sponsors summer Church School

PARMA, Ohio - In an attempt to keep younger children active during vacation from Sunday School and Ukrainian School, the Youth Committee of St. Vladimir's Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral held Vacation Church School for the third consecutive year with the cooperation of the parish clergy, board of trustees and the Ukrainian Orthodox League.

This year's school, held daily from July 29 to August 2, attracted 55 students between the ages of 3 and 13. The theme for the week was "The Lord's Prayer" and included classes in religion, music, arts and crafts, as well as a snack period. They also toured two local Orthodox churches, baked "prosphora" and received an explanation of the recent icons installed at St. Vladimir's.

The children received daily updates on the number of medals won by both the United States and Ukraine during the Olympics.

A solemn part of the week took place when all the children proceeded to the famine monument on the grounds of St. Vladimir's. Following an explanation of the history of the famine that killed 7 to 10 million Ukrainians, the children lighted a candle, said prayers and placed flowers at the base of the monument.

On Friday afternoon, at the conclusion of Vacation Church School, parents and grandparents were invited to attend a closing program. They had the opportunity to view the crafts made by the children and to listen to the songs learned by the children.

The success of this year's program is especially attributed to the dedication of professional teachers of the parish, both on the college and high school/elementary school levels. Instead of relaxing away from a school setting, they chose to share their talents for the benefit of the youngest generation.

Next year's program is scheduled for the first week in August and is open not only to parishioners of St. Vladimir's, but to non-parishioners as well. For more information, call the rectory at (216) 885-1509.