Roma Prystai, Head of the DoBro volunteer organization, participant of many projects of the Center of Student Chaplains, student of Lviv Polytechnic National University, tells:
– In 2018, my friends and I rested at sea in Koblevo (there is Polytechnic Recreational Camp). Also traditionally there were members of the Center of Student Chaplains. Once on the beach a man approached us and invited to sing songs and talk in the evening. That was Father Ihor Khomichak. After that day, we spent time together. This was the beginning of my life with the Chaplains.
Then there was my first student camp in Yaremche. There I was told more about DoBro and its activities. I was interested in going to Krakovets, so I decided to try and went with them several times. Then I joined fairs, workshops and camps at the parish.
In 2019 there was my first camp to the East of Ukraine, where I was once again convinced that I was on the right way.
My presence in the bell tower became more frequent. Eventually, the volunteers became my good friends.
Something unexpected happened to me in June 2020. A new head of the DoBro volunteer organization had to be chosen. I could not have imagined that I was considered a candidate for this position. As an introvert, I was very scared to hold such a position. But due to the support and help, I dared to take on this responsibility. And for almost a year now I have had the honour of representing the volunteer organization, which has become my second home.
I knew about SAD Theater from the very beginning. I admired the performance of each participant, but I did not see myself playing. It was difficult for me to be on stage since school. But when the opportunity arose to go with Vertep to the East of Ukraine to the military, there was no doubt. My desire to be there at Christmas was stronger than anything else.
Of course, not everything goes perfectly smoothly in life. Challenges appear almost every day. One of the largest is quarantine. Many projects now have been operating under quarantine measures. But even so, we do our best to be very active. This is a time where we can show even more support and love.
It is very important to understand that a good example is more valuable than teaching. Therefore, we are more focused on live communication. We are going to the East of Ukraine to be together and show the unity of our people by deeds not just by words. We work with orphans because everyone is needed and precious.
We organize meetings and trainings for volunteers, communication and many different acquaintances that help to find a common language with different people. We rest together and sing songs, we are together when we celebrate victory, or analyze failures, when there are birthdays, weddings and baptisms, and when we need support or just be there.
I am happy that God brought me to DoBro. I know that I am always waited for in the bell tower. The Student Church of the Blessed Martyr Oleksii Zarytskyi (3a Lukasha Street) is a place where everyone is welcome.
I am inspired by each volunteer and I am very happy when a new person comes. We create the future. Lets’ create it with consciousness and responsibility!
Light is a choice, and once I made my choice. DoBro is in my heart, inspiration in people.
