Minneapolis community holds traditional St. Nicholas program (02/05/06)

Minneapolis community holds traditional St. Nicholas program

by Dr. Michael J. Kozak

MINNEAPOLIS - In the Ukrainian rite, St. Nicholas is one of the most popular saints. Many churches were erected in his honor in Ukraine and other countries where the Ukrainian people settled. His icon is almost always included in the iconostasis and his name is frequently mentioned in various religious services.

St. Nicholas is considered a protector of children and the poor. Although over 1,500 years have passed since his death, because of his charitable work and generosity, he continues to live in the hearts of millions of people in both the Eastern and Western Churches.

In Ukraine, before the Communist takeover, the feast day of St. Nicholas was celebrated by attending church services, with sleigh rides around the village, entertainment of relatives and friends, and giving gifts to children or loved ones. Gifts often were given during a special play, in which the principal role was played by St. Nicholas.

At St. Constantine Ukrainian Catholic Parish, where Father Canon Michael Stelmach is pastor, a St. Nicholas observance was held in the school auditorium on Sunday, December 18, 2005, after the divine liturgy.

At the nicely covered tables, members of the audience enjoyed coffee and sweets prepared by the mothers of some of the performers - Christine Pedro, Denice Tataryn and Sandra Pawluk.

Thanks to the school director, Dmytro Tataryn, his wife, Helen, the teachers and the parents, a program was presented by the students of the Saturday School of Ukrainian Studies. It was directed by Lesya Hutsal and Natalia Showdra, who dedicated much effort and time to make this event a success.

The following students participated in a program of songs and recitations: Julianna Pawluk, Leeza Pawluk, Tauras Pawluk, Mika Pedro, Aleksa Tataryn, Taras Tataryn, Sopia Hutsal, Christina Potichko, Dmytro Hutsal and Wolodymyr Smitiuk. The president of the Men's Club, Stanley Miskiw, was the liaison to St. Nicholas.

At the closing of the program, all children, the participants of the program and those in the audience received gifts from St. Nicholas.

Then, Dr. Walter Anastas, on behalf of the local Ukrainian credit union, presented a $500 check to the school; one parishioner, Lesia Parekh, added $100. This gesture was received with great appreciation and applause.

Father Michael expressed his thanks and appreciation to financial supporters, teachers, parents and the audience for showing their interest in the school whose aim is to preserve and promote the Ukrainian identity, faith and cultural heritage.

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