UKRAINIAN CALENDAR CUSTOMS AND RITUALS IN MEMORY OF THE DEPORTED LEMKOS

Abstract

The article, using the example of the historical memory of the deported Lemkos, examines the significance of studying Ukrainian calendar customs and rituals, which play an important role in the formation of national identity, the preservation of cultural heritage and spiritual foundations of the Ukrainian people. In modern conditions of globalization and urbanization, which gradually cause the loss of authenticity of many traditions, local studies of ethnographic groups, in particular the Lemkos, emphasize the need to transfer cultural knowledge to subsequent generations. Calendar customs and rituals serve not only as a reflection of the deep beliefs and worldviews of Ukrainians, but also as the basis for the formation of their spiritual culture. They play a key role in strengthening ties between generations and are important for social cohesion. The main holidays in the Lemko annual calendar are characterized: Introduction, Andrew, “Veliya” (Holy Vespers), Christmas, Basil, Second Holy Vespers, Meeting, Annunciation, Palm Sunday, Easter, Green Holidays, Kupala, etc. The listed holidays clearly trace the motives of the agricultural, pastoral character and the cult of the dead, which are based on the cyclical renewal of nature. The role and place of pagan remnants in the rites dedicated to the holidays of the year, the essence of which was the process of transforming pagan customs, rituals and holidays into Christian ones, that is, the phenomenon of dualism is shown. The study of the outlined issues opens up the possibilities of a deeper understanding of the origins of Ukrainian culture. The presented topic acquires particular relevance due to the growing interest in one’s own history, folklore, ethnographic studies and calendar customs in modern Ukrainian society. A return to traditions is increasingly perceived as an important component of preserving the cultural identity of the Ukrainian people.