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Hallelujah Moment from Ukraine:
Easter, or “Paska,” in Ukraine
Easter is called “Paska” in Ukraine, the term also used for the Jewish Passover. Jesus went to the cross during Passover, an observance that recalls the blood of the lambs that protected the Israelites as the angel of death "passed‑over" their houses in Egypt. The Passover prepared the way for the exodus in the time of Moses. We Christians also use the image of the slain lamb by whose blood we are saved, and in Easter we celebrate the resurrection of Christ that brings our freedom.
In Lviv, the preparation for Paska begins well in advance. Lent starts on a Monday; rather than “Ash Wednesday,” the Ukrainians have "Bowing Wednesday"-- parishioners attend church and bow repeatedly to the floor to show their sorrow for their sins. The effect is the same as putting ashes on the forehead. Spring cleaning is a must for every home, store, flat, street, and park. Trees are painted white at the base, sidewalks are washed, and every nook of Lviv is swept clean.
Holy Week is filled with religious and cultural observances influenced by Orthodox Christianity, which came to the area in 988 A.D. Pussy willow branches are blessed and waved on Palm Sunday, a local substitute for palm fronds. Thursday evening begins a fast from meat and dairy products that lasts until Easter morning. On Saturday afternoon, Easter baskets are blessed. These are covered with embroidered towels and usually contain Easter bread — also called Paska — hand-painted eggs, hard boiled eggs, salt, butter, sweet cheese, horseradish, and kielbasa. The food will later be enjoyed at home.
As in other cultures, many of the symbols of Easter in Ukraine, such as the bread, the painted eggs, and the pussy willows, are carried over from pre-Christian spring rituals. It is inspiring to see how the church has “redeemed” these customs by giving them Christian meanings.
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