As the VMC storyteller, it’s fun to see how different churches across the country gather people together.
It’s one of the great strengths of the church – welcome and hospitality.
I’ve written stories about Christmas dinners and summer picnics and potluck BBQs.
But I’ve never written a story about pysanky before …
For the last couple of years in Nordegg, Alberta, Crystie Tarr opens the church doors each spring for an afternoon of art – making pysanky or more commonly known as Ukrainian egg decorating.
You might remember seeing these amazing eggs at some point – intricate designs, beautiful colours, incredible artistry.
Patterns are drawn on the egg with wax, then dye is applied.
These steps are repeated several times and then the wax is removed to reveal the whole design.
Crystie used to make Pysanky every year with her Polish grandma who lived close to the Ukrainian border.
When the war started in the Ukraine, the church started the Pysanky event as a fundraiser for the Ukraine and it has carried on as a community Easter celebration.
In lots of ways, this afternoon is a simple thing.
But it’s also the essence of Christian community – nurturing love and connection among the body of Christ and at the same time, welcoming the stranger and those who are not yet part of the community.
It’s a posture of unconditional love and generosity.
Essentially, it’s a reflection of the love of God.
Sometimes pursuing the mission of God looks like a pysanky party.