On Saturday, the second event took place, a heartwarming and educational meeting within the framework of the “School of Carols. From Roman to Jordan”. And it proved to be no less wonderful than the last time. The preparations for the event itself were a bit like an ‘obstacle course’, but “Bohuslav Koliada” (Bohuslav Carols) is unconquerable and unbreakable, so we managed to accomplish everything planned and even more!
What did we do this time? We got better acquainted with the great and inspired team of the “Portal through the Centuries: Bohuslav Koliada (Bohuslav Carols)” project, recalled a little about the trips and expeditions, and then learned about the ancient traditions and customs related to Koliada (or Carols), the Goat, nativity scenes and Malanka, understood the “calendar vicissitudes” and talked more about festive meals and ancient rituals associated with Christmas Eve. In addition, we talked about how ancient traditions are intertwined with religious ones and why this happens. And such an insight into history is extremely important and very relevant, says Oksana Humeniuk, the Head of the “Around Us. UA” NGO, co-author of the “Portal through the Centuries: Bohuslav Koliada” project, scholar, PhD in History.
“In fact, the topic of preserving and promoting cultural and historical heritage is extremely important. The mere realisation of how deeply rooted our history and traditions are and how distinctive, outstanding, rich and beautiful our culture is will help us overcome the inferiority complex that has been imposed on us for centuries. And now, when we are reaching a new level of perception of ourselves in the national, cultural and historical context, it is very important to remember and preserve the centuries-old heritage of our ancestors, because this is our ticket to an express train to a decent independent Ukrainian future,” she said.
Several workshops followed. Kateryna Robak, a craftswoman from Khokhytva, presented an exhibition of her straw works and told more about Didukh, one of the main symbols of Ukrainian Christmas. Preparations for its making usually began with the harvest. Ms Kateryna showed us the process of making Didukh, which was indeed somewhat magical. And here’s a little spoiler from us: a Didukh-making workshop for all comers is scheduled for this week!
And, of course, we sang! Teachers of the Bohuslav Professional Humanitarian College named after I. S. Nechuy-Levytskyi presented very warm and charming carols, and then all the guests of the “School of Carols. From Roman to Jordan” learnt and sang the same ancient carol that was sung almost everywhere in the Bohuslavshchyna, where we were on expeditions, and which sank deeply into our hearts because it is absolutely amazing:
Oh, yesterday, in the evening
Malanka was herding two drakes
Oh, I was herding, herding, and lost them,
and while looking for them, she got lost herself.
And even more: traditionally, there was a tasting of delicacies typical of the Bohuslav region.
This Saturday, delicious Bohuslav bagels were served, and all guests received a recipe for this pastry. We also tasted yummy ‘kalyta’ [a bakery product]. As you might already know, this pastry was cooked at the St Andrew’s evening festivities.
There was a special programme for children, where they were actively engaged in creativity and art.
In total, about 70 people joined the School of Koliada (or School of Carols) on Saturday, who are interested in their own history and are impressed and motivated by it.
“I am fascinated and inspired by the fact that in such a small town as Bohuslav, there are so many people who want to learn about the history and culture of their small homeland. I could see in the eyes of those present that they were interested in the topic and wanted to learn more. After the event, I received wonderful feedback with thanks and requests to continue our educational meetings.
In my personal opinion, people who have a vibrant inner world and are spiritually rich, open to learning something new, and honouring their heritage have a special glow in their eyes and energy. And everyone in the hall was such a person, including the team members, guests, and staff, who did their best to provide us with the necessary conditions for the event,” says Oksana Humeniuk.
Furthermore, this is only the beginning, as there is a whole layer of active work ahead. First of all, the culmination of the project is ahead: performances to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, sending best wishes to the upcoming New Year, and showcasing the pre-Christian customs of our ancestors.
See more unforgettable moments from our heartwarming meeting in the photo report.
