Tara Jeffrey
A candlelight vigil will be held this month to mark the one-year anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine.
“The prayer service will be held in the evening by candlelight with a moment of silence in darkness to remember those who have lost their lives — both those fighting and civilian lives — along with those still fighting for their freedom,” said Cassandra Taylor of the Save Ukraine: Sarnia & Lambton County group. “The service will be unique in that it will include a Panachyda which is essentially final last rites in a traditional Ukrainian funeral service.
“In this solemn service we recognize those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom of Ukraine,” she added. “The moment of silence also for those families displaced all over the world and still trying to find a new home and start over.”
The vigil takes place Friday, Feb. 24 at 7 p.m. at St. George’s Ukrainian Church on Rosedale Ave. in Sarnia. All are welcome, and snacks will be provided in the church basement following the service.
Taylor said community members are encouraged to gather and meet some of the Ukrainian families who are new to the community.
“This community has been so amazing and supportive since this war started - from financial donations, to hosting families, donating their own time and items to support the Ukrainians here,” she said. “They have helped carry the Ukrainian families through difficult times and only seems fitting to have a candle vigil with this community on this difficult one year anniversary."