On May 29-31, the Saskatchewan Provincial CYMK executive hosted their first annual CYMK jamboree at Green Grove Camp on Wakaw Lake. This jamboree was called “Wedding in the Гай” and surrounded topics dealing with Ukrainian Orthodox Weddings and the preparations that go into a wedding. A total of 22 CYMKivtsi were in attendance from both Saskatchewan and Alberta. We were also very fortunate to have His Grace Bishop Andriy, Fr. Gene Maximiuk and Pani Pat Hawryliw to share their expertise with the CYMKivtsi with various topics that surround the Ukrainian Orthodox Wedding.

After registration and dinner on Friday evening, the CYMKivtsi sat down with Pani Pat for a short session to learn about traditional Ukrainian customs and practices leading up to a wedding, from Svatenya all the way up to the life of the newly wed couple. The night was finished off with some icebreakers and a ‘Vatra’. Saturday started off with a session with Fr. Gene who talked about: ‘Communication, Dating and Relationships’. The CYMKivtsi then made traditional Ukrainian ‘Kороваi’ and were judged on their work. All of our advisors, parents and guests were impressed with the quality of ‘Kороваi’ that the CYMKivtsi had made. Following lunch, His Grace Bishop Andriy held a session on the Sacrament of Marriage in the Orthodox Church. Following, the CYMKivtsi got a chance to play some sports and mingle with the other CYMKivtsi. A Vespers service was held just before the amazing wedding banquet. “The Best Wedding Couple” was the name of the activity held in the evening, along with other outdoor activities. The CYMKivtsi also had a chance to pose questions to Bishop Andriy and Fr. Gene about the Church in general around the ‘Vatra’ which was followed by the singing of many Ukrainian folk songs. A Divine Liturgy was served Sunday morning by Bishop Andriy and Fr. Gene while the CYMKivtsi sang the responses. After a quick lunch and clean up, it was time to say good bye to everyone.

The Saskatchewan Provincial CYMK executive would like to thank all of our guest speakers, His Grace Bishop Andriy, Fr. Gene Maximuk and Pani Pat Hawryliw, for their dedication to CYMK and for sharing their time with us. We would also like to thank those who donated items, supplies and those who supported us financially: UWAC All Saints, UWAC Cathedral, TYC – Steppe Branch and the Green Grove Camp Board. Thanks to all the CYMKivtsi from Saskatchewan and Alberta who attended and all of the advisors and parents who helped out on this weekend. It was truly appreciated!

- Submitted by Melania Hawrysh (Vice President Saskatchewan Provincial CYMK)