Ukrainian Independence Day marked with liturgy and traditions in St. Petersburg
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - The day began with a liturgy at the Epiphany of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church in St. Petersburg. It also brought a program filled with traditions, giving families a chance to pass their heritage down to younger generations.
Community member Tetiana Chupryn shared the complex emotions of the gathering, calling it "a day of pride" but also "a day of sorrow pain."
Ukrainian independence history
The backstory:
Ukraine declared its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.
Generations gathered 35 years later to honor the culture, courage and resilience that have defined their country.
St. Petersburg Ukrainian Independence Day celebration
What they're saying:
One participant noted how meaningful it was to introduce her children to the Ukrainian community, saying, "Ukraine is the country where I was born, but America is the country of my living."
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, who has two sons adopted from Ukraine, also attended the event.
Community member Evangelina Astakhova explained that she moved to Florida in October 2022 due to the war and Russian occupation in Crimea, stating she faced prison in Sevastopol for supporting Ukraine. She emphasized the importance of staying strong, while
"If Russia stops fighting, there is no war. But if Ukraine stops fighting, there is no Ukraine," Chupryn said.
Future annual gatherings
What's next:
Community members say they will continue their annual celebrations to show unity with loved ones fighting for Ukraine's future thousands of miles away.
The Source: The information in this story was gathered through live coverage and interviews conducted at the Epiphany of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church in St. Petersburg, including statements from community members Tetiana Chupryn and Evangelina Astakhova.