Ryazan, Russia—A winter "Peace Road" event with multiple activities was held January 19 to 21, 2018, in and near the city of Ryazan.
The UPF chapter in Ryazan, which is 196 kilometers (122 miles) southeast of Moscow, received the baton from UPF of St. Petersburg, which held its own winter Peace Road event on January 18.
On January 19, the Christian holiday of Epiphany, the participants took part in the Orthodox tradition of winter swimming. They lowered themselves into an ice hole at Lake Orekhovoe that had been consecrated on Epiphany night. Afterward, they were heartily welcomed with refreshments and songs to reinforce their strength, and friendly communication.
On January 20, the participants went to the Meshchera area, where children rode inner tubes over the snow and adults went cross-country skiing. Later, all enjoyed riding in a horse-drawn sleigh. Following tradition, at the end of the day the participants enjoyed hot tea and refreshments.
On January 21, the participants attended a meeting with the theme "Along the Road to Peace." Among the guests were Ambassadors for Peace. In a warm family atmosphere, the participants talked about what peace is; about UPF peace activities; and what each of us can do.
A special guest speaker, Natalia Chigrina, head of UPF of St. Petersburg, spoke about UPF peacemaking activities and invited everyone to participate in the ecotourism festival ECO-LOSEVO in June. After the meeting the participants drank tea and enjoyed singing and listening to songs.
The winter stage of the Peace Road 2018 project in Ryazan helped participants to make new acquaintances, find new ideas, and outline new opportunities for interaction!