How language brings together the Ukrainian community.

How language brings together the Ukrainian community.

APOPKA, Fla. – As the war between Ukraine and Russia worsens, so do the fears of many local Ukrainians. 

One Ukrainian teacher is using the power of knowledge to help her community through this uncertain time.

For Natalya Hryhorash, her faith brings her a community when she needs it the most.

“We’re praying for our soldiers. We believe our prayers will help Ukrainians,” said Hryhorash.

Hryhorash is originally from Ukraine, where she spent over 30 years teaching Ukrainian and Bulgarian at a university. She moved to Apopka five years ago to be closer to her son and grandkids, but part of her heart remains in her homeland.

“I still have my friends. My best friends over there in my native city, Lviv, which was bombed yesterday and today,” said Hryhorash.

While she said they’re fine right now, she doesn’t know what tomorrow brings. The community at St. Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church keeps her in the present. Now, she’s doing what she loves, teaching the next generation how to speak Ukrainian.

“I’m happy that they have this possibility to speak and to meet together, to remember interesting facts about Ukraine, our culture, our traditions, our customs. It’s very important, especially this time,” said Hryhorash. 

Most of her students come from Ukraine. While many say Apopka is their home, Hryhorash reminds them of their homeland – something that helps heal their pain.

“It’s much more easier with people who are going through the same thing. And you can bond with them. It’s good to feel someone who feels the same thing and you can go through it together with them,” said Natalia Lushchyk, an 11-year-old who moved to the area two years ago.

Sitting here, speaking Ukrainian, allows that special bond to blossom. It’s the knowledge and pride of Ukraine that Hryhorash hopes will end the war.

“We believe that Ukraine will be independent, always, and no one can take our independence from us,” said Hryhorash.

St. Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church is collecting donations to send to Ukrainian refugees. Click here for more information.