Unraveling the Symbolic Significance of Peaceful Avian Messengers - IRCEF

IRCEF

Interreligious civil environmental forum of Eastern Europe

Unraveling the Symbolic Significance of Peaceful Avian Messengers

On September 21st, Ruslana Dzhahman, an expert at the Institute of Ecological and Religious Studies, had the pleasure of introducing the students of Uzhhorod Gymnasium No. 13 to the fascinating world of birds that inhabit Uzhhorod. The children were genuinely astonished to discover the multitude of bird species that call their city home. As they observed a blue great tit, one student couldn’t help but exclaim, “(‘Oh, yellow and blue, like the flag of Ukraine!’)”. In addition to getting acquainted with the Ukrainian great tit, the young learners delved into the uniqueness of sparrows, learned why it’s important not to confuse rooks with crows and mastered the art of distinguishing nuthatches from other avian friends. The students openly admitted that they had never previously contemplated the incredible diversity of birdlife thriving within their city. As it happened, the very day of this educational encounter marked the global observance of the Day of Peace. Ms. Ruslana took the opportunity to share with the students that one of the enduring symbols of peace is the white dove bearing an olive branch. Throughout history, these birds have held a special place in the hearts of people, symbolizing not only fertility and love but also, in Christianity, representing the Holy Spirit.

Today, peace holds particular significance in Ukraine, where the nation yearns for it more than ever. To honor the occasion, the students embarked on a creative endeavor, crafting white doves from recycled materials. Each dove carried with it a heartfelt wish: for our country to victory and for lasting peace to embrace Ukraine as swiftly as possible.

The event was held as part of the cooperation of the Interreligious and Civil Environmental Forum of Eastern Europe (IRCEF) headed by Olexander Bokotey) and the German Nature Conservation Union (NABU Bundesverband, NABU International), project coordinators Ivan Tymofeiev (NABU), and Nataliya Kulya (IRCEF).

Informational Service of IRCEF

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