Easter celebrations hold double meaning at St. Michael's Ukrainian Catholic Church

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Families across Milwaukee celebrated Easter Sunday at St. Michael's Ukrainian Catholic Church. It was the same, but for them, they're also praying for peace in Ukraine.

"So Easter Matins are a service where we start off, reliving when the apostles thought that Jesus was still in the tomb, and then the discovery that he's not," said Krysta Nora, one of many at St. Michael's Ukrainian Catholic Church on Sunday.

The service, attended by many Ukrainian Americans and Ukrainians, all celebrating the resurrection of Christ.

"We walk around the church three times before coming to the front of the church, where the priest announces Christ is risen. That's the first time we hear it," said Nora, explaining parts of the ceremonies.

As Easter baskets were blessed and food was shared, there was something besides Easter on everyone's mind.

"It was great to see nice turnout today," said Parish Administrator Joseph Spolowicz.

He says more people than ever have been engaged at the church since the latest Russian invasion in February of 2022.

As Spolowicz stood in front of a Ukrainian flag he says was signed by Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines, he says they're celebrating Easter for them as well.

"Obviously with what's going on in Ukraine, all of our hearts are with our relatives and friends and people in general in Ukraine because of all the suffering that has gone on right now," said Spolowicz.

As they continue to collect funds to help those in need in Ukraine, much in the spirit of Easter, they're hoping for the resurrection of peace for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people.

"We have hope in every sunrise, we have hope in every Easter and in the same way, we have hoped that Ukraine will be victorious," said Nora.

If you're interested in donating to help the church with upkeep, or to assist people in Ukraine, you can do so on their website here.