United to win: Ukrainian community in Chicago holds Easter spiritual concert, raising funds for Ukraine's armed forces
Photo credit: Peter Koutun
On the eve of Easter, the Ukrainian community in Chicago gathered at the Cathedral of St. Volodymyr and Olha for a spiritual concert that brought together music, spoken word, and prayer in a powerful display of unity and support for Ukraine.
The event also raised over $4,500 for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Rubryka reports, citing Vilni Media.
The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art organized the concert, which featured the "Glorious" choir and a chamber orchestra led by Bohdana Chepil. The ensemble performed the cantata "The Seven Words of Christ" by Ukrainian composer Myron Datsko, with text by Basilian Father Vasyl Mendrun. The work reflects on the final words of Jesus Christ on the cross, symbolizing the journey from suffering to salvation.
A special part of the program included readings by Priest Pavlo Drozdak, pastor of St. Nicholas Cathedral, who complemented the musical performance with reflections on sacrifice, love, and hope.
Photo credit: Peter Koutun
Motria Melnyk, president of the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, opened the event, highlighting the "Glorious" choir's mission to nurture choral art and young talent within the Institute. Conductor Bohdana Chepil has brought together singers of varying musical backgrounds to form the choir. She also leads the church choir at St. Nicholas Cathedral, performs with the "Prykarpatskyi" quintet, and teaches at the Ukrainian school at St. Joseph the Betrothed Parish.
Photo credit: Peter Koutun
Photo credit: Peter Koutun
During the concert, attendees contributed over $4,500 in donations, which choir members plan to send to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
At the close of the evening, Priest Roman Artymovych, pastor of the Cathedral of St. Volodymyr and Olha, thanked all participants and guests. Organizers say the concert fostered a unique sense of unity and connection to Ukraine among everyone present.
Photo credit: Peter Koutun
Background
It should be noted that in the city of Sárvár, in western Hungary, the first Easter liturgy in the Ukrainian language was held — a landmark event for the local community and part of a broader effort to expand Ukrainian-language services throughout the Western Transdanubia region.
