A Place of Comfort Amidst Conflict
Ukraine War Refugees continue to face the harsh realities of conflict, even after seeking safety in Canada. At the Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Edmonton, they find a sanctuary where they can connect with their community and receive much-needed support. The church, largely made up of Ukrainian immigrants, provides not only spiritual guidance but also emotional and practical help to those grappling with the challenges of displacement and adjusting to life far from their homeland.
Archpriest Cornell Zubritsky witnesses firsthand the emotional toll the war continues to take on his congregants. Many have air raid siren apps on their phones, keeping them constantly connected to the danger their loved ones still face in Ukraine.
A Growing Community in Crisis
The church’s membership, which declined during the COVID-19 pandemic, has since grown as more Ukrainian families arrive in Canada. Since the 2022 Russian invasion, approximately 300,000 Ukrainians have entered Canada on emergency visas, seeking safety and stability. Despite finding shelter, many still grapple with uncertainty, trauma, and the fear of an uncertain future.
Some attendees express exhaustion from hearing about the war. For a few hours each week, they seek a respite from the constant reminders of their homeland’s devastation. However, the reality of war follows them—through text messages, phone calls, and news updates.
Personal Stories of Survival and Struggle
Snizhana Kshetska, a mother of three, arrived in Canada at the war’s onset. While her husband served in the Ukrainian army, she navigated life in a new country with her children. Now reunited, the family remains in Edmonton, yet the thought of returning to Ukraine lingers. “Every day is a reminder of the war,” Kshetska shares, reflecting on the difficulties of being displaced.
Many Ukrainians, like Kshetska, face a painful dilemma—returning to their homeland or continuing to rebuild their lives in Canada. For some, the choice is clear. For others, particularly younger generations, the decision remains uncertain.
Beyond Spiritual Guidance: Practical Support
Beyond providing emotional and spiritual support, the church serves as a lifeline for newcomers adjusting to life in Canada. Zubritsky assists members with finding employment, navigating immigration policies, and dealing with housing concerns. Recent changes to immigration policies have left many feeling anxious about their future, fearing they may be forced to leave Canada.
“The stress of displacement doesn’t end upon arrival,” Zubritsky explains. “Many Ukrainians worry about their ability to stay and establish a permanent life here.”
Finding Strength in Community
The Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral of St. John the Baptist continues to be a pillar of hope, resilience, and support. For those who have fled their war-ravaged homes, the church represents more than a place of worship—it is a sanctuary where they can share their struggles, find guidance, and hold on to the hope of a brighter future.
By offering community, resources, and emotional refuge, Edmonton’s Ukrainian refugees are proving that even in times of great hardship, strength and solidarity prevail.
