Embroidered Christmas Ornaments for the House of Mercy of Saint Veronica

At the end of December, compassionate volunteers from the university, talented young women, and men united to support the House of Mercy of Saint Veronica. The nuns, who care for elderly women, requested assistance in creating embroidered Christmas ornaments.

Under the initiative of Marta Rudenko, head of the Center for Educational Work and Cultural Development, the necessary materials were purchased, and workshops were organized. Some participants already had the skills and had been making similar decorations for a while. Contributors to the project included Anastasiia Bai, an associate professor in the Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Education, and students Daryna Yatsuk and Liliana Shozda, who shared their finished works. Ivanna Vorona, an associate professor in the Department of Foreign Languages, not only donated handmade ornaments but also assisted in selecting and purchasing materials and shared crafting tips with beginners. Nazar Krulyk, Oleksandra Lovinska, Andriana Humeniuk, Nadiia Yaremus, and Marta Rudenko prepared embroidered templates.

The TNMU library graciously provided the space for these gatherings. Special thanks go to the library staff for their help and attentiveness. Svitlana Shpunar demonstrated the key steps for making the ornaments, while Iryna Stasyshyn and Lesia Datsenko assisted in their creation. Library director Olena Protsiv shared how the library team rallied around the project “Embroidered Symbols of Charity,” recalling the early stages of creating these ornaments.

Additionally, members of the Ukrainian Club joined the initiative, along with Indian students Shreyoshree Sheel and Thejashree Thavanithi. The students shared that they already had embroidery skills and enjoyed crafting, eagerly participating in the workshop.

The required number of ornaments was completed in just two days.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their contributions and support of the House of Mercy, as well as to the library director and staff for hosting the workshop and supporting all our initiatives.