Easter in Odesa: Traditions and Unity Amidst War
A priest blesses people with holy water. Photo: Novyny.LIVE
On Sunday, April 20th, thousands of parishioners gathered near churches across Odesa to celebrate Easter and bless their Easter bread. This year’s celebration took place in a calm atmosphere filled with joy. The faithful brought baskets filled with Easter bread, dyed eggs, and homemade dishes to the churches. After the blessings, families returned home to continue celebrating the Resurrection of Christ.
Journalists from Novyny.LIVE attended the blessing procession in Odesa and the surrounding region.
Blessing of Easter bread in Odesa
Easter is one of the most significant holidays in the Orthodox calendar. This year, residents of Odesa began gathering at churches early in the morning to attend the service and bless their Easter baskets.
Long lines formed outside the churches in the city center and outskirts, with families holding baskets adorned with towels, containing Easter bread, colored eggs, sausages, cheese, and butter. People maintained calm and order.
"We are all at war..."
In the churches of Odesa, festive services were held from early morning. A notable sermon was delivered by Father Vasyl Virozub, who addressed the congregation with profound words about the cost of freedom and true unity.
"Today — we are all at war. The soldier with a weapon is at war. The volunteer, the sailor, the medic, the teacher, and even a child drawing a blue and yellow heart in a shelter are at war," the priest told the attendees.
