Immaculate Conception eighth graders learn Ukrainian Easter traditions, discuss events

Students in Maria Zownirowycz’s eighth grade history class at Immaculate Conception Catholic School in Columbia Heights learned Ukrainian Easter traditions March 15.

But the conversation also touched on Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which has been a regular topic in class discussions. Zownirowycz asked the class to name a World War II dictator, and the student she called upon said “Hitler.” Asked to name a dictator today, another student promptly named “Vladimir Putin,” the president of Russia.

Zownirowycz, dressed in a traditional Ukrainian blouse and black pants, is Ukrainian by descent and has many cousins living in Ukraine today, including one she regularly talks with. One of her grandfathers was a Ukrainian soldier who fought in World War II.

When she asked students about freedom offered in the U.S. and what children can do before they reach voting age, one responded with “join organizations and show your support.” Zownirowycz also reminded the students of the importance of prayer, including those offered every day at the school.

“There are hard moments in life,” Zownirowycz said, “but I can fully rely on God and help by being the best version of myself.”

At the end of class, Zownirowycz played the song “Blessings” by Laura Story, with lyrics projected on the screen at the front of the room. They include:

 

“We pray for blessings, we pray for peace

Comfort for family, protection while we sleep

We pray for healing, for prosperity

We pray for your mighty hand to ease our suffering

And all the while, you hear each spoken need

Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things

 

“‘Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops

What if your healing comes through tears

What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know you’re near

What if trials of this life are your mercies in disguise”