Conversation about the Greatness of Yosyf Slipyi in the TNMU Library
On October 8, 2024, an artistic event, “The Lord Teaches Us a Lesson on How to Walk Through Thorns to the Stars!” was held in the library of TNMU. A Ukrainian scientist, writer, public figure, honored artist of Ukraine, member of the National Union of Writers of Ukraine, member of the National League of Ukrainian Composers, Candidate of Historical Sciences, Professor of the Ukrainian Studies and Philosophy Department of Puliui Ternopil National Technical University Oleh Herman and director of the “Dzhura” publishing house Vasyl Vanchura.
Vasyl Vanchura introduced those present to the publishing house’s novelties, in particular, books about Patriarch Yosyf Slipyi: “Son of the Church – Son of Ukraine” by Vasyl Folvarochnyi and “Prince of the Church” by Oleh Herman.
Later, Oleh Herman spoke in more detail about his work. The author offered the readers a script for a feature film, which reveals three periods in the life of the Patriarch. Through the artistic means of the film, the author aims to introduce us to the inner world of Yosyf Slipyi and show the significance of this spiritual figure for the historical formation of Ukraine and its people.
Oleh Herman told a fascinating story about the history of his work. In 2002, after a conversation with the Patriarch of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, Lubomyr Huzar, he came up with the idea of creating a telefilm. Prolonged searches, interviews with eyewitnesses, acquaintance with literary records, stay in Rome, and the world of memories of the Patriarch Yosyf Slipyi ended with creating the film script. However, “Prince of the Church” was published ten years later.
Ten years have passed, and on the 130th anniversary of the Patriarch, Taras Shevchenko Ternopil Academic Regional Drama Theater staged the performance of “Golgotha” based on Oleh Herman’s book.
The meeting was very informative and exciting. Those present received unforgettable impressions and learned much about Patriarch Yosyf Slipyi. The atmosphere was incredibly touching and warm.