Friday, September 29, 2023

Peace Vigil for Ukraine

Scenes from Blairstown’s Peace Vigil

Standing in solidarity with the people of Ukraine at Blairstown’s Peace Vigil, March 2nd. Photo by: J. Phalon, 2022
A small flame of hope, among many, burned brightly at the Vigil. Photo by: D.L. Dunn
Keeping the flame of hope for peace alive at Blairstown’s Peace Vigil, Mar. 2nd. Photo by: J. Phalon
This young girl, Vika, who was born in Mariupol, Ukraine, wore their colors for support and flowers for peace.
Before speaking herself, she and her mom, Nancy Christian, listened to stories of desperation in her homeland.
Photo by: D.L. Dunn
Vika and her mom, Nancy Christian at Blairstown’s Peace Vigil for Ukraine, Mar. 2nd. Photo by: J. Phalon

The Vigil for Ukraine took place in front of the Post Office on Wednesday night, March 2nd. It lasted more than 2 hours and attracted a small crowd of people, many of Ukrainian heritage. Spilling off the sidewalk, attendees show their support for their support for the Ukrainian resistance. Small white votive candles were handed out to all, creating a serious and somber mood.

Co-organized by Gina Trish, Lena Halberstad, Karen Klein and others who worked hard to spread the word, the night featured many sharing harrowing stories from friends and relatives overseas in Ukraine enduring the ongoing Russian invasion. Trish said more Vigils will likely be held if residents think they are necessary while Russia continues with the violence.

“A Gathering for Peace” took place Wednesday night in Blairstown.
Sharing about Ukraine. Photo by J. Phalon 2022
Describing the horrific travails friends and family are enduring in Ukraine. Photo by J. Phalon
Pastor Dave Tillish from First United Methodist Church of Blairstown led attendees in song. Photo by: D.L. Dunn
“A Peace Vigil for Ukraine on Main Street, March 2nd, Photo by D.L. Dunn

Quilting for a Cause is accepting donations at 27 High Street. Rose Phalon said she put a basket on her front porch to collect donations of items to send to nearby Poland. There, refugees are in need of basic toiletries and living supplies. Her group will ship out blankets, hats, scarves and mittens.