Ryazan, Russia—The winter 2019 phase of the Peace Road project began with two days of activities, both indoor and outdoor.
On January 19, or Epiphany—the day when Russian Christians celebrate the baptism of Jesus Christ—a group of activists from UPF followed the Russian tradition of submerging themselves in an Epiphany ice hole.
Later that same day, UPF held a creative meeting named for the Igor Maznin poem "Let's Be Friends with Each Other." The participants could express themselves in different ways; the poems, songs, and dances they performed created a wonderful atmosphere.
On the next day, January 20, UPF organized a Peace Road event in which children and adults, on inner tubes and skis, had a great time in nature. After that, they met in in a cozy café for tea and a pleasant chat.
Every year more new participants join the Peace Road events. They come not only from different parts of Ryazan but also from other cities. Every year there is someone who takes on a challenge for the first time—whether entering an Epiphany ice hole or skiing. Our project brings people together, they become more open, and there is more joy and light in their lives.