| ROMANIAN CULTURE
The Cathedral parish has always been
proud of its Romanian ancestry. It is known in North America and in
Romania as a source for Romanian tradition and culture. Throughout the
decades, this pride has been demonstrated in many ways – Romanian
Bazaars, Bake Sales, Dances, Cultural Programs, Concerts, Religious
Celebrations, Picnics, Societies, Folklore Ensembles, etc.
As
with any parish of its age, the Cathedral has experiences many ‘growing
pains’. It has sent its sons to war, stood strong in times of poverty
and depression, provided a comforting environment in times of joy and
sorrow, and opened its doors to all who pass through them. Throughout
all of it, its members, though happy and proud Americans, have never
forgotten that they are also Romanians.
A
renewed sense of dedication and preservation of our heritage is
developing today. While the parish is comprised of many third and fourth
generation American-Romanians, as well as those who are not of Romanian
origin at all, the pride of the “Treicolor” is alive and well. With the
continued increasing numbers of those newly arrived from Europe, the
parish is working to reinvigorate the culture and heritage that helped
found and keep it alive for nearly 100 years.
In
the past, Romanian language school was offered. The “Hora Unirii”
Cultural Group performed dances. The Choir sang popular songs and
anthems. The people wore their costumes from the various provinces and
villages. Young and old danced and shared food and fellowship together.
Today, these traditions are coming more alive again, and in the coming
year, various exhibits, concerts, dances, ensembles, etc are planning to
be offered for the Romanian Community of Detroit and for the general
public.
If you are
interested in contributing to the Culture & Heritage Committee, or have
costumes, photographs or other artifacts that you wish to donate, please
contact the Parish Office. We are proud to accept these items, and will
keep them safe, as part of the history of the Romanian people in North
America. Also, if you would like to donate your time as an instructor,
dancer, cook, etc to help us promote and preserve our language and
culture, please call the Cathedral Office today (248/569-4833).
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