In difficult and crucial moments for Ukraine, the parishioners of St. Michael’s Church organized a holiday basket for seniors still affected by recent vandalism in their community.

“I have a family in Ukraine — my mother, father and sister live there,” said Nataliia Kuzyk, a member of the church congregation who is concerned about Russia possibly invading Ukraine.

“All I’m worried about now is that I may lose them and never be able to visit my country again.”

Unknown individuals committed vandalism on the territory of the church on Nov. 15. Strangers drew graffiti on the main door of the church.

Many parishioners are scared and sad due to the crisis that is happening in Ukraine. Coupled with the local vandalism, the worldwide fear of a potential Russian military intervention puts people in a depressed state.

“It was a shock for us,” said Lawrence Boychuk, the president of the church. “We work hard to keep the church going and such incidents upset our parishioners.”

The number of parishioners is growing every year. The church has become a place of unity for Ukrainian immigrants, where they can share their traditions, culture and get support.

“For the elders who have worked in this church from a young age, it is an incredible joy to see the development of the parish,” said Kuzyk.  “They understand that their work is worth it.”

To lift the spirits of the parish in difficult times, the women decided to bake sweets for senior members.

“I wanted to make happy our senior parishioners,” said Kuzyk. “Pandemic, the incident with vandalism and the danger that befell Ukraine suppresses the joy in our community.”

Many older people are unable to physically attend church due to the pandemic. They join all the services online. Therefore, many of them were upset that they could not help and support their community.

“I have been a part of this church for many years,” said Boychuk. “It is very difficult not to be able to support my friends during this difficult time.”

Fourteen women took part in organizing gifts for retirees. Each woman had to bake 100 cookies or other sweets.

“We wanted to make basket gifts for every retiree of our church,” said Kuzyk. “To do this, we bought baskets in which we put a variety of sweets and greeting cards.”

All Ukrainian women were dressed in traditional clothes while working together in the church basement.

“This event was a breath of fresh air for us,” said Yana Ohrymenko, a member of the church. “After much bad news, we finally doing something that brings us together and makes us happy.”

After all preparation, the men of the church took the gifts to the homes of retirees.

“Although we can’t be with our family and parents right now, we can support other people,” said Kuzyk. “In this way, I don’t feel guilty for not being with my relative and parents.”