Starting the first Sunday after Easter, it is customary for Ukrainians to visit their loved ones in the cemeteries bringing the good news of Christ’s resurrection to those that are “asleep.” In the Ukrainian tradition this is called проводи or “Provody” and usually involves a панахида or “panakhyda” (memorial service) which is served by our Parish Priest and also involves a small Easter picnic at the gravesite itself, leaving the leftovers for those in the grave.
These Memorial services for the deceased begin the week immediately after Easter. This special service is held in the cemetery after the church service and all graves are blessed. The names of all deceased are read out by the priest. Food is an important part of the commemoration of the deceased and the minimal such commemoration is giving out ritual breads, called kolachi, and fruit to those in attendance at the service.
The parish Priest’s schedule of cemetery visits (he will be visiting different cemeteries on different days) on the Sunday’s following Easter. Check the list below and contact the Priest to tell them the family name and location of the gravesite to request a panakhyda. If the priest is not visiting your requested cemetery, you can see if they are available to make a special visit.
Graveside Services (Provody) will be conducted as outlined below
April 27th – Edmonton Cemetery, 3 p.m.
May 4th – Beechmont Cemetery, 2 p.m.
May 11th – St. Michael’s Cemetery, 2 p.m.
May 18th – Evergreen Cemetery, 2 p.m.
May 25th – St. Stephan’s Cemetery, 2 p.m.
Private arrangements may be made for dates outside the Sunday scheduled by contacting Fr. Victor
Call/Text (204-333-7810) or Email: [email protected]
CLICK HERE to view our Events Calendar for information and addresses for each cemetery.
