Holiday decorations have already been put away in many homes across the city, but for some Edmontonians Christmas has only just begun.
The appearance of the first star in the night sky was the signal to begin Christmas Eve celebrations on Thursday evening for Ukrainian-Canadian families in Edmonton. January 7 is Christmas Day in the Julian Calendar used by many Ukrainian Christians from the Orthodox and Catholic traditions, along with Christians in several other countries. Typically, Ukrainian families meet for Sviata Vecherya, a 12-course meatless meal honouring the 12 apostles.
Orysia Boychuk, president of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress Alberta Provincial Council, says it’s been a challenge to keep up the traditions amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year they met virtually, but some families, like hers, will be meeting in person if it’s safe to do so.
