The Children’s Choir Travels to London to Perform at The Ukrainian Embassy
The children’s choir with Inna Prystaiko (center) at the Embassy of Ukraine
The Children’s Choir recently traveled to London, England, to perform at the Embassy of Ukraine at the invitation of Inna Prystaiko, wife of the Ambassador for Ukraine, Vadym Prystaiko. It was the first time the group performed outside of Scotland since the formation of the children’s programs.
The children had the opportunity to visit several significant Ukrainian cultural heritage sites while in London, including the prestigious Shevchenko Library and Archive. We are grateful to Father Andriy, a steadfast supporter of the children’s programs in Scotland, who arranged this impactful visit.
Exploring the Shevchenko Library and Archive
The Archive's curator, Dr. Ludmila Pekarska, transported the young guests into a treasure trove of Ukrainian history and culture. They listened attentively as Dr. Pekarska spoke about the resilience and determination of the first Ukrainians who resettled in the United Kingdom after WWII. A deep appreciation filled the room as the children reflected on the bravery and perseverance of those Ukrainians who sought to establish a new life in a foreign land, an experience akin to their own today.
Thanks to the kind invitation of Bishop Kenneth Nowakowski, the children also visited the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of the Holy Family. They toured the cathedral, participated in Mass, and were treated to a delightful lunch.
Visiting the Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Holy Family
At the embassy later that afternoon, Mrs. Prystaiko welcomed the children and took them on an exclusive tour of the grounds and gardens. Then, proudly dressed in their traditional Ukrainian attire, the children gave their most passionate performance yet. Before leaving the embassy, they presented Mrs. Pyrstaiko with a special gift as a token of appreciation and gratitude for her hospitality. The collective art piece was made of individually cut-out butterflies that formed the image of a radiant sunflower, the national flower of Ukraine.
Performance at the Ukrainian Embassy
The joyful day concluded with an emotional visit to the Statue of Saint Volodymyr, erected by Ukrainians in Great Britain in 1988. After the children paid their respects and placed sunflowers at the monument's base, they joined Father Andriy, diplomats, and other esteemed guests. Together, they filled the air with the sound of the Ukrainian national anthem.
Placing flowers at the Statue of Saint Volodymyr
This trip was made possible by the unwavering support and generous contributions of our friends at Travel CTM and The Very Reverend Father Andriy Chornenko, Vicar in Scotland. Mission of Innocents extends a heartfelt thank you to Mrs. Inna Prystaiko for her hospitality and warm welcome.