Patriarch Sviatoslav shared Epiphany eve dinner with children in need

On January 18, 2012, on the eve of Epiphany, His Beatitude Sviatoslav (Shevchuk) shared a holiday dinner with Caritas Kyiv, said Fr. Roman Syrotych, director of Caritas Kyiv. The meal was attended by about 70 people including street children, children from poor families, and children with disabilities. The head of the UGCC was greeted in the Caritas Kyiv center with bread and salt. The director expressed joy and gratitude the Patriarch Sviatoslav visited needy children on this holiday. “It shows us that you and the whole UGCC care for poor and needy people and children because you have found time to be with us. It gives us confidence and enthusiasm to work,” said Fr. Roman Syrotych. The celebration included singing carols and a vertep prepared by the children and their councilors. The meal began with a joint prayer and welcoming remarks by the head of the church. He explained to the children the meaning of the Epiphany holiday, and wished all peace, understanding and respect. After the meal of 12 traditional dishes, His Beatitude Sviatoslav gave books and presents to the children. “I want to express my sincere gratitude to His Beatitude Sviatolsav for coming here today and for his blessings, to Bishop Bohdan Dzyurakh for his assistance and support, to all people of goodwill who made this celebration possible. Thanks to event, dozens of children felt the warmth of a family and holiday meal,” Fr. Roman told the Information Department. He also invited all those wishing to help people in need to contact him at 097 194 59 11 and find out how they can become a benefactor to needy people.   UGCC Information Department