“Belarusian literary legend Kuzma Chorny once said that ‘the joy of labour demands that everything done well is recognised’. These words perfectly reflect the purpose of our awards, which we give to honour the most worthy representatives of our society,” noted Alexander Lukashenko, speaking at the Palace of the Republic’s awards ceremony. He emphasised that the annual event is unique in the CIS in including the recognition of creative achievements, “There are representatives of various professions among the laureates of the ‘For Spiritual Revival’ Award and special awards. However, they share a common feature: tireless service to the Belarusian nation. Our Fatherland relies on such enthusiasts.”Chatting to the laureates, it’s clear that they are motivated by love for their work and for their country. Fellow journalist Maxim Korotkin works for the Belarusian State TV and Radio Company and has been given the ‘For Spiritual Revival’ Award as a member of the Agency of TV News team. The Belarusian Land documentary has been a revelation for many people, so I’m keen to learn his impressions. “This project also stunned us,” Maxim admits. “We were surprised at how amazing Belarus is, studying its layers of cultural and historical heritage.” However, Mr. Korotkin modestly adds, “The best award for us will be TV viewers’ desire to visit the sites in Belarus which we’ve shown in our project. I’m confident that there will be many.”
Examples of our ancient legacy are also viewable in a new edition released by the publishing house of the Belarusian Exarchate — the 16th century Slutsk Gospel. Vladimir Grozov, Director of the publishing house, heads the project. He is a creative person and an active manager, full of ideas for the future. “Although Slutsk Gospel is very important for our publishing house and for Belarusian society, it is only one aspect of our activities — although interesting and vital. We’ve now begun to prepare a family edition of the 12th century Polotsk Gospel,” he tells us. “Returning these relics to life brings restoration of the spiritual pillars supporting our nation. We can show that our people have a huge spiritual tradition.” Mr. Grozov explains, “There are no tasks, including economic, which can’t be fulfilled when a nation has spiritual strength to protect it.”
The Archbishop of Gomel and Zhlobin Aristarkh has been awarded the Presidential Award for his personal contribution to the revival and preservation of the spiritual, historical and cultural heritage of the Belarusian nation. “2009 was a very tense year — physically and morally,” muses the Archbishop. “However, the life of a Christian is a constant struggle — primarily, with oneself. This struggle allows us to develop, becoming better and stronger…”
It’s no wonder that doctors are also among the laureates of the ‘For Spiritual Revival’ Award. Their self-sacrificing work goes above and beyond the call of duty. Staff at the Hospice Palliative Care Hospital were among those recognised. Director Olga Mychko asserts, “The most important thing in life is to do good. We help cancer patients with little time left on Earth to find their way to God.”
Mr. Lukashenko warmly congratulated the laureates and wished them inspiration and further achievements. I recall the words of a romantic and wise man, a philosopher and a man of faith, Roman Catholic priest Juozas Bulka, from Mosar (who recently passed away). My title is inspired by him — also a laureate of the Presidential Award.
By Vitaly Volyanyuk
