Ukraine--second only to Russia in wealth and...

Ukraine--second only to Russia in wealth and population among the Soviet republics--is also known for its historically rich culture and highly developed folk arts.

From intricately carved wooden figures to handwoven wool carpets from the Carpathians, Ukrainian folk culture has been handed down through generations for more than a millennium. And ever since 988, when Volodymyr, grand prince of Kiev, first brought Christianity to the Slavs, Ukrainians have avidly celebrated Christmas.

Caroling has long been a part of that tradition, and if you venture to All Saints Episcopal Church in Pasadena on Monday, you will have a chance to see and hear Ukrainian Christmas carolers in full-throated splendor.

At 7:30 p.m., the choir of St. Andrews Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Los Angeles will sing Ukrainian and traditional English Christmas carols under the direction of choirmaster Greg Hallick, whose father is pastor

at St. Andrews.

The concert will feature two types of Ukrainian carols--the Koladka, or religious songs that deal with the birth of Christ, and the Schedrivke, or secular folk songs that celebrate the holiday season.

According to Hallick, the famous Christmas tune “Carol of the Bells” was written in the early 1900s by a Ukrainian composer, Mikola Leontovich.

The men and women in the choir will wear traditional embroidered blouses and shirts of Ukraine. A speaker will give brief explanations of the carols. In addition, musician Roman Ritachka will perform several solos on the bandura, a Ukrainian stringed instrument that is a cross between a lyre and a harp.

The free event, in the church at 132 N. Euclid Ave., is sponsored by the All Saints U.S./Soviet Relations group. For more information call (818) 798-5973.