On April 19, 2025, the Caritas of the Archdiocese of Przemyśl organized a heartwarming Easter breakfast for nearly 200 individuals in need, showcasing the spirit of community and compassion during the holiday season. The event was held on Holy Saturday and served as a beautiful testament to the Christian principle of loving one’s neighbor.
Fr. prał. Artur Janiec, the director of Przemyśl Caritas, opened the gathering by reflecting on the profound significance of Easter. He emphasized that the resurrection of Christ is not merely a spiritual event but a source of hope, especially for those grappling with the challenges of daily life. His words set a tone of mutual respect and love among the attendees, reminding everyone of the importance of togetherness during this sacred time.
Among the attendees was the Metropolitan of Przemyśl, Fr. Abp Adam Szal, who extended warm Easter wishes to everyone present. He also performed the traditional blessing of the food, a cherished ritual that adds a spiritual dimension to the communal meal.
The breakfast featured an array of traditional Easter dishes, including żurek (a sour rye soup), eggs, various meats, bread, and pastries. Each dish was not only nourishing but also rich in symbolism, representing new life, joy, and peace—key themes of the Easter celebration. The atmosphere was filled with lively conversations, as participants shared experiences and enjoyed moments of respite from their daily struggles.
In addition to the communal meal, every participant received a package containing essential food items. These packages, prepared by Caritas, were intended to provide practical support for the days following the holiday. In total, Caritas distributed 1,000 such packages throughout the archdiocese, reaching out to the most vulnerable families and individuals.
“Holy Saturday is a day of silence, but in this silence, there is also a call for hope,” noted Fr. Paweł Konieczny, the deputy director of Caritas of the Archdiocese of Przemyśl. He expressed the organization’s commitment to sharing hope with those who often have the least of it. This sentiment resonated deeply with the participants, many of whom felt seen and cared for, if only for a moment.
The success of this event was made possible through the dedication of numerous volunteers, staff members, and generous donors. Their collective efforts created a welcoming environment where everyone felt dignified and valued—not just materially, but spiritually as well. This sense of community is vital, especially during the holidays when feelings of loneliness can be particularly acute for many.
In a related initiative, another Easter breakfast is set to take place on the same day, April 19, 2025, featuring traditional festive dishes such as eggs, żurek, white sausage, and Easter cakes. This event will be held in a tent, and like the previous gathering, it will commence with the traditional blessing of food.
The Duszpasterstwo, involved in organizing this event, is also preparing packages with everyday necessities to be distributed to various aid centers, including shelters for the homeless and single mothers' homes. These packages will provide essential supplies to those in need, further reinforcing the spirit of giving associated with the Easter season.
Moreover, the Duszpasterstwo is encouraging financial support for this initiative, inviting community members to make donations to the Dominican Monastery. Details on how to contribute can be found on the event's Facebook page, ensuring that even those unable to attend can still participate in this vital cause.
The efforts of Caritas and the Duszpasterstwo exemplify the power of collective goodwill and the importance of community support. As Fr. Janiec and Fr. Szal highlighted, Easter is not just a time for personal reflection but an opportunity to extend kindness and compassion to those who may be struggling.
As the Easter celebrations unfold, it is essential to remember the significance of these gatherings. They are not merely meals but are imbued with meaning, serving as a reminder of the hope and renewal that Easter represents. Through acts of kindness and solidarity, communities can foster a sense of belonging and care, crucial for those facing hardships.
The Easter breakfast events organized by Caritas and the Duszpasterstwo stand as shining examples of how faith and community can come together to uplift those in need. They remind us that even in times of difficulty, there is strength in unity and that by sharing our resources, we can help to create a more compassionate society.
As the holiday season continues, may the spirit of generosity and hope resonate within our communities, inspiring more initiatives aimed at supporting the vulnerable and fostering a sense of belonging for all.
