Starting the first Sunday after Easter, it is customary for Ukrainians (and many other ethnic Orthodox Christians) to visit their loved ones in the cemeteries bringing the good news of Christ’s resurrection to those that are “asleep.” In the Ukrainian tradition this is called проводи or “provody” and usually involves a панахида or “panakhyda” (memorial service) which is served by a priest and in some regions also involves a small Easter picnic at the gravesite itself, leaving the leftovers for those in the grave.

Ukrainians Visit Cemeteries After Easter

But How Does It Work?

The first thing is to find out your parish priest’s schedule of cemetery visits (he will likely be visiting different cemeteries on different days) on the weekends following Easter. Give him a call to request a panakhyda and tell them the family name and location of the gravesite. If the priest is not visiting your requested cemetery, you can see if they are available to make a special visit.

2024 Provody Schedule

If you do not have a home parish yet, you are welcome to call other Ukrainian Orthodox parishes and ask about when their priests are going to the cemeteries this year.

But Do I Need To Bring Something?

No, you are definitely not required to bring anything specific to have a panakhyda at the gravesite. But there are some things you may wish to do and/or bring.

You may wish to:

• Give the priest a special donation for their time (but this is in no way required)

• Bring some gardening items to clean up the gravesite before the panakhyda

• Bring a snack of Easter foods (kovbassa, paska or babka, boiled eggs, cheese etc) to share after the panakhyda

• Bring a candle to hold during the panakhyda

• Bring a list of names of other deceased family members