† Holy Resurrection Russian Orthodox Sobor, Vancouver

Dear parishioners of the Holy Resurrection Church, I congratulate you all on a very important date – the centenary of our wonderful church.

I came to our church in 2001. It was a very difficult time for me, because I came to Canada alone without English. In the Church, I kind of found my family, met absolutely wonderful people: Father Miсhael, Matushka Elena and many parishioners who are no longer with us or who have left or do not attend our church. I remember all these people with great gratitude.

Kolesnikov Raisa and Nikolai Mikhailovich – they always somehow supported me morally. I remember when I came to the church, Nikolai Mikhailovich always sang me the song “At the samovar, me and my Masha.” And my soul always became somehow lighter, simply wonderful. The Kingdom of Heaven to Raisa and Nikolai Mikhailovich Kolesnikov.

I always think warmly of our parishioners. I met my husband in our church on the day of the Triumph of Orthodoxy, when parishioners from other Orthodox churches all came to our church and celebrated together. And so, he started coming. The next Sunday he came and somehow very boldly asked me if I was married. And when I said no, he said I will marry you. That’s the story.

I helped in our church Sunday School, and with pleasure helped to put on concerts, Christmas concerts, then for many years I did not do this. My son Matvey was born and I was entirely occupied with the family and raising a child. Then, like many emigrants in Canada, I had to build my career, learn to look for a job and that’s how it turned out.

The church is a huge wonderful magnificent family that always supports us in difficult times and is always with us in joy and in sorrow. This year I was able to start taking part in the cultural life of our church again thanks to our Lena and Father Michael, I joined the Dance Group. I have never danced, but with Father Michael’s light hand, anyone will probably start dancing.

I wish all the parishioners good health and prosperity to our Church!