Finding Solace in Faith: The Ukrainian Community in Edmonton Navigates the Ongoing War

The Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Edmonton has become a sanctuary for many Ukrainians who have fled their homeland due to the ongoing war with Russia. Archpriest Cornell Zubritsky, who leads the congregation, often hears the haunting sound of air raid sirens—not from the skies of Edmonton, but from the cellphones of his parishioners. Many in the congregation have downloaded apps that alert them to air raids in Ukraine, a stark reminder of the turmoil their loved ones still endure. For these families, the war is not just a distant conflict but a daily reality that connects them to their homeland through moments of anxiety and fear. Zubritsky explains that this connection makes the war feel real even in Canada, as his congregation fights the emotional battle of worrying for their families and homeland every day.

The congregation at St. John the Baptist is predominantly made up of Ukrainian immigrants, many of whom have arrived in Canada since the Russian invasion in 2022. Despite a decline in numbers during the COVID-19 pandemic, the church has seen a resurgence of families seeking comfort and community. Zubritsky notes that some members of his congregation are struggling to maintain hope as the war drags on. They often ask him not to speak about the situation in Ukraine during services, as they seek a brief reprieve from the constant reminders of the conflict. For a few hours each week, the church offers a space where they can find solace and a sense of normalcy, away from the daily stresses of war.

The Weight of War: Emotional Struggles and Resilience

The emotional toll of the war is evident in the stories of parishioners like Snizhana Kshetska, who arrived in Canada with her three children shortly after the invasion. Her husband, a former Ukrainian soldier, joined the family in Edmonton last year after being released from military service. Kshetska, like many others, does not mark the anniversaries of the war’s start. For her, every day is a struggle to come to terms with what has happened. She expresses her frustration and helplessness, saying, “I think every day it is hard to realize that this happened with us, and nobody helps us to stop this.” The pain of separation from loved ones and the uncertainty of the future weigh heavily on her and many others in the congregation.

Despite the challenges, Kshetska holds onto the hope of returning to Ukraine one day. However, she acknowledges that the decision will ultimately depend on her children, who have begun to build lives in Canada. This dilemma reflects the broader experience of many Ukrainian families in Edmonton, who are torn between their longing for home and the uncertain future that awaits them if they return.

Beyond Spiritual Support: The Church’s Role in Community Building

Archpriest Zubritsky has found himself taking on a role that extends far beyond spiritual guidance. In addition to providing emotional support, he helps his congregation navigate the practical challenges of living in a new country. This includes assisting with job searches, dealing with landlords, and addressing immigration issues. Recently, concerns about reduced immigration allowances have added to the anxiety, with many families worrying about their future in Canada. Zubritsky admits that the plight of his congregation often moves him to tears, as he witnesses their daily struggles and fears.

The church has become a hub not only for religious observance but also for community support. It is a place where families can connect with others who understand their experiences, share their struggles, and find collective strength. Zubritsky’s efforts underscore the importance of community in helping these families navigate their new lives in Canada while keeping their cultural and emotional ties to Ukraine alive.

Families Torn Apart: The Personal Cost of War

The stories of individuals like Snizhana Kshetska and families in the congregation highlight the personal cost of the war. Many have been separated from loved ones, and the uncertainty of when they might be reunited weighs heavily on their minds. The constant flow of news from Ukraine—whether through apps, phone calls, or texts—keeps the war ever-present in their lives. This perpetual state of anxiety is compounded by the challenges of adapting to life in a new country.

Despite these difficulties, the Ukrainian community in Edmonton is showing remarkable resilience. Families are working hard to rebuild their lives, and the church plays a central role in this process. Whether through prayer, community support, or practical assistance, the congregation is finding ways to heal and move forward. However, the scars of war run deep, and the journey toward healing is far from over.

A Glimmer of Hope: Finding Strength in Community

Amid the darkness, there is a sense of hope within the Ukrainian community in Edmonton. The church serves as a beacon of light, offering not only spiritual comfort but also a sense of belonging. For families like Kshetska’s, the support of the congregation is invaluable. It provides a sense of normalcy and reminds them that they are not alone in their struggles.

As the war in Ukraine enters its fourth year, the congregation at St. John the Baptist continues to hold onto hope. They pray for peace, for the safety of their loved ones, and for the strength to keep moving forward. The bonds of faith and community are helping them navigate the challenges of their new lives in Canada while keeping their cultural heritage alive. Though the road ahead is uncertain, the resilience and solidarity of the Ukrainian community in Edmonton is a testament to the power of hope in the face of adversity.

Reflecting on the Anniversary: A Somber Reminder of the Ongoing Conflict

Monday marks three years since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, a somber reminder of the devastating impact of the war. Tens of thousands have been killed, and millions displaced. For Ukrainians in Edmonton, the anniversary is not just a historical milestone but a personal reminder of the pain they have endured. Many are still grappling with the trauma of leaving their homeland and the uncertainty of their future.

Despite the challenges, the Ukrainian community in Edmonton remains determined to rebuild their lives and create a brighter future for themselves and their children. The church continues to be a source of strength, offering a space for healing, reflection, and hope. As the congregation looks to the future, they hold onto the belief that one day, peace will return to Ukraine, and their families will be reunited. Until then, they will continue to support one another, drawing strength from their faith and their shared experiences.

In the words of Archpriest Zubritsky, the Ukrainian community in Edmonton is not just fighting for survival but for a sense of normalcy and hope. Their story is one of resilience, faith, and the unbreakable bonds of community. As the world marks another year of the war, the congregation at St. John the Baptist remains a testament to the human spirit’s ability to endure even in the darkest of times.