Father Chad Pawlyshyn (Image Credit: CFJC News)
Ukraine

Ukrainian community in Kamloops shows ‘Kozakiv’ spirit

Feb 27, 2023 | 4:17 PM

KAMLOOPS – The Ukrainian Orthodox community has a long history of fighting for its identity.

Dating back to the 1400’s, the Kozakiv [Cossacks] – also known as freedom fighters — fought for Ukraine’s independence.

Father Chad Pawlyshyn of the All Saints Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Kamloops says the last year has proven the Kozakiv spirit lives on.

“The spirit hasn’t died. And that’s one of the things of the Ukrainian people, is its a spirit of being free all the time, identifying who you are and holding true to it,” Pawlyshyn told CFJC News.

But their resolve isn’t just seen on the front lines. Father Pawlyshyn says it’s evident here in Kamloops.

The local church has been sending necessary items to the people of Ukraine.

“One of our parishioners has friends who are in the armed forces, so we’ve sent sleeping bags, coats, boots and we sent, earlier, some craft supplies for some of the seniors in one village,” he said. “You know, we are giving them something to do in the colder months because they are not able to get around and just keep active.”

Ukrainian Canadians are far from the conflict, but they are still well aware of the suffering people face in their homeland.

“It’s sadness but also joy (that) we have been able to support those who face the struggles at this time,” Pawlyshyn said.