A Special Gift for St John’s

Seventy-eight years ago, a kind-hearted resident of Cononley named Annie Briden forever altered the destinies of Maria and Wasyl Harasym. Maria and Wasyl, refugees from Ukraine, had fled a labour camp in Germany, seeking solace in Britain. Upon their arrival in Cononley in 1946, Annie welcomed them with open arms, offering Wasyl employment. Each Sunday they gathered in worship together, here in Cononley, until their dreams led them to Toronto, Canada, in 1952. They went on to have three children, Olia born in 1952, Anna in 1959, and Andri in 1963. Sadly Wasyl died in 1996 aged 71.

Now, at the age of 95, Maria holds dear the memories of Cononley’s generosity bestowed upon her and her husband. The family have all visited Cononley and hold a special relationship with Ian Chatburn, Annie’s grandson, and his wife Bev. In a heartfelt gesture of gratitude, Maria’s daughter Olia recently gifted a bead angel, crafted by Maria, for our Christmas tree—a symbol that will take centre stage!

As you gaze upon this angel, I encourage you to pray for Maria, her family, and all those in her homeland of Ukraine, who once again find themselves amidst the turmoil of war.

Rev’d Mike

Loving God, we lift up the people of Ukraine, especially those who suffer or live in fear, seeking your presence and protection around them.

We pray for the world, that in this moment of crisis, we may extend our hands in solidarity to our sisters and brothers in need.

We remember Maria and her family with gratitude for the existence of compassionate souls like Annie. May we embody her spirit as we aspire to fulfill your will, and may we honour Maria and Wasyl by remembering, giving thanks and welcoming the stranger.

Let us walk in your ways, so that peace and justice may blossom for the people of Ukraine and throughout the world.

Amen.

Maria & Waysl in 1948, Skipton

Maria in 2015

Maria in 2020