Ukrainian Marian Collection
In 1981 Helen Nykolyshyn, a cataloger for the Marian Library, established the Ukrainian Marian Collection. Nykolyshyn, originally from Ukraine, was especially interested in preserving the religious and cultural heritage of Ukraine. She sponsored exhibits at the University of Dayton on Ukrainian religious art and culture and, through her vast networks throughout the United States and Canada, secured donations of Ukrainian Marian artwork and artifacts for the Marian Library collection. Acquired during the 1980's and early 1990's, the collection is representative of historic moments for Ukrainians during that time period, including the millennium of Christianity in Ukraine in 1988 and Ukraine's declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.
Our Lady of Mariupol showcases the artwork Mariupol Pokrova created by Maksym Palenko. It depicts the Lady of Mariupol extending her embrace to cover the heroic defenders of the Azovstal plant from shelling and destruction. Her cassock shows the inner structure of the Azovstal plant catacombs that became a temporary shelter for Ukrainian fighters and civilians. Under her arms, covered in her cassock, the protectors of Mariupol are peering into your eyes. (From Saint Javelin email 5/26/2022)
Original paintings in the Marian Library by Ukrainian artist Roman Turovsky portray the Passion of Christ through the lens of hardship, flight, atrocity and upheaval.
Read morePreparing for Holy Week and Easter may include decorating eggs — including the Ukrainian pysanky tradition.
Read moreChurch architecture provides safe haven and embodies the cultural heritages of Ukraine; it also can fall prey to wartime aggression.
Read moreIn 1981, a Marian Library cataloger reached out to Ukrainian parishes and organizations across the United States to build a collection demonstrating Ukraine's devotion to the Blessed Mother.
Read moreExplore the fascinating history of the first known Marian apparition in Ukraine and a miraculous icon affiliated with a wartime victory.
Read moreIcons of Mary hold significance in Ukraine and other countries; one, known as the "Impenetrable Wall," depicts the Blessed Mother as intercessor and protectress.
Read moreThe Marian Library shares paintings by the late Ukrainian artist Maria Harasowska-Daczyszyn, who frequently depicted the Virgin Mary and the Christ child in traditional Ukrainian attire.
Read moreUkrainian artworks in the Marian Library reflect long-standing Marian devotion.
Read moreKayla Harris, associate professor and archivist, writes an article for The Conversation.
Marian Library director Sarah Cahalan contributes to a Catholic News Service article.
International Marian Research Institute graduate Richard Lenar shares his doctorate of sacred theology dissertation.