Orthodox Pentecost holiday in Ukraine ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Orthodox Pentecost holiday in Ukraine and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
In Ukraine, the Orthodox Pentecost holiday is celebrated on the 50th day after Easter. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and the Virgin Mary, and marks the beginning of the Christian Church. The holiday is also known as Whit Sunday or Whitsunday.
On Pentecost, churches are decorated with green branches and flowers, symbolizing the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit. Traditional foods include kulich (a rich, round bread) and paskha (a sweet cheese pudding).
Pentecost is a time for family gatherings, feasting, and visiting friends and relatives. In the countryside, it is customary to light bonfires on Pentecost eve. Young people often jump over the flames, believed to protect them from evil spirits.