In Ukrainian Christian tradition, cleaning the church before Easter (Pascha) is not just a practical task but a deeply spiritual and communal act. It reflects the preparation of both the church and the faithful for the greatest feast of the year—the Resurrection of Christ.
For centuries, Ukrainians have embraced this tradition, with entire communities—young and old alike—participating in the effort.
Just as believers cleanse their souls through confession, prayer, and fasting, the House of God must also be purified before the celebration of Pascha.
Cleaning symbolizes spiritual renewal and readiness to receive the Risen Christ.
The Gospel tells us that Jesus cleansed the Temple in Jerusalem, driving out the merchants (John 2:13-16). This is a reminder that the church must be a place of purity and prayer.
During Great Lent, believers focus on repentance and inner cleansing, and church cleaning is a visible expression of this preparation.
Just as the church is cleaned before Easter, every believer is called to cleanse their heart of sin before the Resurrection.
This is especially important before the Paschal midnight service, when the entire community gathers to proclaim “Christ is Risen!” in a purified and beautifully prepared church.
For Ukrainians, the church has always been more than just a place of worship—it is the center of religious, cultural, and community life.
Cleaning together strengthens the bonds of faith and fellowship, as everyone contributes to honoring the House of God.
Cleaning usually takes place during Holy Week (especially Holy Monday–Wednesday), reminding the faithful of Christ’s suffering and preparation for His sacrifice.
The physical effort of cleaning is seen as a small personal sacrifice, a way of sharing in the journey of Holy Week.
In Ukrainian villages, it was customary to thoroughly clean not only the church but also homes, yards, and cemeteries before Easter.
This was part of a broader spring renewal tradition, which included:
Baking Easter bread (paska) and decorating pysanky (Easter eggs).
Wearing new or clean traditional clothing for the Paschal service.
Cleaning family graves in preparation for Radonitsa (the post-Easter commemoration of the dead).
Icons and Iconostasis – Polished and sometimes decorated with fresh flowers.
Candlestands and Chandeliers – Cleaned to allow the Easter light to shine brightly.
Sanctuary (Altar Area) – Clergy and volunteers clean the Holy Table (Altar), floors, and sacred items.
Floors and Walls – Washed, so the church looks fresh and welcoming.
Pews and Chairs – Wiped down in preparation for the large Easter crowds.
Church Cemetery (if present) – Cleaned in preparation for Radonitsa, when families visit and pray for their deceased loved ones.
The pre-Easter church cleanup is more than just a chore—it is a sacred act of devotion. It reflects the Ukrainian belief that, before celebrating the Resurrection of Christ, both the church and the hearts of the faithful must be cleansed and renewed.
By coming together for this effort, the community strengthens its spiritual bonds, ensures that the church is beautiful for Pascha, and prepares to welcome the Risen Christ in a pure and holy place.
