“Miracles of Christmas” — A Festive Space for Children Opens near the Patriarchal Cathedral in Kyiv

At the beginning of the celebration, Father Lyubomyr Yavorskyy, Patriarchal Econome, emphasized that during these dark times of war, everyone, especially children, needs light, hope, warmth, and love. “This Christmas space is a place where this warmth and joy can be shared,” he stressed, as reported by the Information Department of the UGCC.

This festive space on the grounds of the Patriarchal Cathedral was created with the blessing of His Beatitude Sviatoslav, Father and Head of the UGCC, by the team of the Patriarchal Foundation “Mudra Sprava.” The initiative is being implemented with the support of the Metropolitan Humanitarian Foundation in the United States, led by Metropolitan Borys Gudziak, as well as the Apostolic Exarchate in Germany and Scandinavia, under the leadership of Bishop Bohdan Dziurakh.

On the eve of St. Nicholas Day, the residence was visited by children of fallen Ukrainian heroes. In the future, the Christmas space is planned to host children from internally displaced families and orphans.

At his residence, St. Nicholas will listen to children’s dreams and wishes, bringing joy to their young hearts. Additionally, the cathedral offers interactive zones for children to immerse themselves in a world of fantasy, along with theatrical performances that will create unforgettable memories. Festive fairs and attractions contribute to a truly magical atmosphere, even amidst these challenging times.

The residence of St. Nicholas will remain open until December 15^th, after which the “Mystery of the Nativity” will commence on the cathedral grounds. The “Miracles of Christmas” winter space will be open to the public until January 5, 2025, inviting Kyiv residents and visitors to experience the festive atmosphere and discover the richness of Ukrainian traditions.

On December 1 st, a similar “Residence of St. Nicholas” was opened at the Patriarchal House in Lviv.

His Beatitude Sviatoslav attended the opening ceremony in Lviv, emphasizing the importance of preserving the festive spirit for Ukrainian children despite the hardships of war.

“We celebrate this Christmas season and the presence of St. Nicholas during these difficult times when the war attempts to steal childhood and joy from our children. The enemy seeks to bring tears to their eyes, but we, here in our homes, will do everything in our power to bring them happiness and laughter. No one will be able to deprive our children of the joy of the Nativity of Christ, which unites us all,” stated the Patriarch.