MILWAUKEE — As the war continues between Ukraine and Russia, many Ukrainian people in the state continue to worry about their home country. 

Sophia Torcivia attends St. Mary's Ukrainian Orthodox Church faithfully each week. It's been part of the Milwaukee community for decades.

Torcivia is originally from Ukraine, but has no living family there today. She was overcome with emotion as she recalled her experience in her home country many years ago. 

“It was 80 years ago that my grandmother, my mother, my aunt, my brother and myself fled Ukraine,” she said. “How we got across to Germany, I have no idea.” 

Torcivia said the trek from Kyiv, Ukraine to Frankfurt, Germany was not easy, and now, decades later, she is watching history repeat itself. 

Thinking about the current war brought her to tears and brought back painful memories from the past. 

“It's very painful to watch children being blown up,” she said. “I remember bodies hanging in trees. War is horrible and people don't understand that unless they have experienced it.” 

Torcivia said while her mind is always on the people dealing with chaos back in her home country, she also has to worry about another problem right here in the church she also calls home.  

The church roof needs to be replaced and she’s hoping the community could lend a helping hand in the fundraising effort she started. 

“Our ceiling is literally falling down,” said Torcivia. “The two sides are being held by bungee cords so they don't collapse on us.”

The church was built in the 1850s and moved twice. According to the City of Milwaukee, it is one of the oldest remaining wood frame churches still in use. 

Torcivia said the restoration is one step in preserving Ukrainian traditions. 

She’s worried for what’s to come not only for the building, but for the Ukrainian people. She’s trying to stay optimistic and praying for peace and an end to this war. 

St. Marys Ukrainian Orthodox Church is also involved in relief efforts. It has partnered with Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Illinois to collect donations and medical supplies to send to Ukraine. 

If you would like to make a donation for the building repairs or tp help the people of Ukraine, you can drop it off at St. Mary's Ukrainian Orthodox Church at 1231 W. Scott Street in Milwaukee. Torcivia said donations can be dropped off on Sundays after service at 10 a.m.