A priest blesses people with water. Photo: Novyny.LIVE

On April 20, Sunday, thousands of worshippers gathered near churches across Odesa to celebrate Easter and bless their Easter breads. This year's festivities were calm and uplifting. People brought baskets filled with Easter breads, dyed eggs, and homemade dishes to the churches. After the blessing, families headed home to celebrate the Resurrection of Christ.

Reporters from Novyny.LIVE attended the blessing ceremonies in Odesa and the surrounding region.

Blessing of Easter breads in Odesa

Easter is one of the most significant holidays in the Orthodox calendar. This year, Odesans began to gather at churches early in the morning to make it in time for the service and the blessing of Easter baskets.

Long lines formed outside the churches in the city center and suburbs, where families held baskets adorned with towels, containing Easter breads, colored eggs, sausages, cheese, butter, and salt. The atmosphere was peaceful as people maintained order.

"We are all at war..."

In Odesa's churches, festive services took place from early morning. Father Vasyl Vyrozub delivered a special sermon, addressing the worshippers with profound words about the price of freedom and true unity.

"Today we are all at war. At war are soldiers with weapons. At war are volunteers, sailors, medics, teachers, and even a child drawing a blue and yellow heart in a shelter," the priest addressed the congregation.