The Feast of Theophany: A Sacred Tradition and Spiritual Renewal for Ukrainian Families in Canada
The Feast of Theophany, celebrated on January 6th (or January 19th according to the Julian calendar), is one of the most significant occasions in the Christian liturgical calendar. It commemorates the Baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River, an event marking the revelation of the Holy Trinity: God the Father’s voice from heaven, the Son in the waters, and the Holy Spirit descending as a dove. For Eastern Christians, especially Ukrainians, Theophany holds deep theological and cultural significance—one that continues to resonate through generations of Ukrainian families in Canada.
The celebration of Theophany is marked by many cherished traditions, one of the most important being the Blessing of the Water, which symbolizes the purification of creation and the sanctification of the faithful. However, this sacred event also intertwines with family customs that have been passed down for generations. For Ukrainian families in Canada, particularly those with Orthodox or Greek Catholic roots, Theophany remains an essential part of their spiritual and cultural heritage—a practice that binds the past with the present and carries a deep sense of community, joy, and renewal.
Schedry Vechir: The Eve of Theophany
In Ukraine, the Eve of Theophany is known as Schedry Vechir, which translates to “Generous Evening” or “Bountiful Evening.” It has earned the nickname “Small Christmas” due to its festive atmosphere, echoing the spirit of Christmas Eve. For Ukrainian families, Schedry Vechir is a time to gather with loved ones for a special meal that includes twelve meatless dishes, symbolizing the twelve Apostles or the twelve months of the year. The dishes are prepared from humble, natural ingredients such as grains, vegetables, and honey, embodying the spirit of fasting and anticipation.
On this evening, the tradition of blessing the water during the Vespers service is deeply significant. This blessed water is used to sanctify the meal, the home, and the faithful. It represents spiritual renewal and purification, bringing God’s grace into the family’s life for the year ahead. Straw crosses are often placed on the meal’s dishes, representing Christ’s baptism in the Jordan River, symbolizing His redemptive mission.
Caroling, known as shchedrivky, fills the evening with joy, as families come together in celebration not only of Christ’s baptism but also of the hope for divine blessings in the coming year.
The Importance of Blessing the Water
The Blessing of the Water on the Eve of Theophany holds rich theological and liturgical meaning. For Eastern Orthodox and Greek Catholic Christians, it is an act of spiritual renewal. By blessing the water, the Church symbolically prepares the faithful to receive Christ’s blessing and grace, just as the waters of the Jordan River were sanctified by Christ’s baptism. Water, in Christian theology, represents purification, life, and regeneration. The blessing of the water signifies the sanctification of the world and the renewal of creation through Christ’s baptism.
Theologically, this water also serves as a means of grace and a reminder of the faithful’s own baptism. It is often taken home by the faithful and used throughout the year to bring blessings and protection to their families.
Ukrainian Families in Canada: Preserving Tradition Across Generations
For over four or five generations, Ukrainian descendants in Canada have preserved these sacred traditions, adapting them to their new home while holding onto their cultural and spiritual roots. In Canada, particularly within Ukrainian-Canadian communities, the Feast of Theophany remains an important celebration. These families continue to practice the Blessing of the Water and partake in Schedry Vechir meals, despite being far from their ancestral homeland.
For many Ukrainian-Canadians, this spiritual tradition is vital to maintaining their cultural identity and connecting with their faith. The passing down of these customs through families and communities helps preserve the essence of Ukrainian Orthodox and Greek Catholic practices, fostering a strong sense of belonging and unity. For the older generations, Theophany is a deeply personal reminder of the values and rituals that shaped their upbringing in Ukraine, while for the younger generations, it provides an opportunity to learn, celebrate, and reconnect with their roots.
However, for newer generations of Ukrainian-Canadians—many of whom may not have grown up with these practices—the traditions of Theophany can sometimes feel distant. The significance of Schedry Vechir, the Blessing of the Water, and other sacred customs may be lost or overlooked in the hustle and bustle of modern life. This is why it is crucial for families to continue sharing the history, the meaning, and the joy of these traditions with the younger generation.
Passing the Torch to New Generations
The new generation of Ukrainian-Canadians—those born or raised outside of Ukraine—may not fully grasp the theological importance of Theophany or the rich symbolism of its traditions. Some may not have experienced the Blessing of the Water or participated in Schedry Vechir meals. This generational shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Ukrainian-Canadian families to renew their commitment to passing on these sacred practices.
It is essential for families and communities to nurture an understanding of the deeper meaning of Theophany—especially for the younger generation. Parents, grandparents, and church leaders have a pivotal role in teaching the significance of these traditions, explaining the symbolic role of water, the importance of baptism, and the manifestation of the Holy Trinity. In this way, the Feast of Theophany can continue to serve as a profound moment of spiritual renewal, not only for individuals but for the entire family and community.
Theological Significance for Both Orthodox and Greek Catholics
For both Orthodox and Greek Catholic Christians, the Feast of Theophany is a celebration of God’s presence in the world through Christ’s baptism. It is a feast that unites believers in the shared understanding of spiritual renewal through baptism and sanctification. In Canada, Ukrainian Orthodox and Greek Catholic communities observe the Blessing of the Water as an essential part of their faith, linking them to the larger tradition of Eastern Christianity.
The continued practice of these traditions among Ukrainian-Canadians—whether through family meals, church services, or the Blessing of the Water—reminds all generations that the work of God is ongoing, sanctifying creation and offering purification and renewal to those who seek it. By participating in these traditions, both the older and newer generations can experience the grace of God in their daily lives and pass on the faith to future generations.
Conclusion: A Bridge Between Generations and Cultures
As Ukrainian-Canadian families continue to celebrate Theophany with joy and reverence, they weave together the threads of faith, culture, and community. Whether they are gathering around a table with twelve meatless dishes on Schedry Vechir, sharing in the Blessing of the Water, or participating in the outdoor Blessing of the Waters, the spiritual practices of Theophany provide an opportunity for deep reflection and renewal.
For the new generation of Ukrainian-Canadians, who may not have practiced these traditions, it is important to remember that these customs are not just historical relics but living expressions of faith. Through education, practice, and shared experiences, these sacred traditions can continue to thrive, ensuring that the spiritual legacy of Theophany remains alive for generations to come.
The Feast of Theophany is not only a reminder of the purification and sanctification that Christ offers but also a celebration of the community and shared joy that binds all believers together. As Ukrainian-Canadians honor this tradition, they are not only reconnecting with their cultural roots but also passing on a rich, living faith that will continue to bring blessings to their families and communities.
By Fr. Slavko
