Orthodox Christmas Day

Orthodox Christmas Day, celebrated on January 7th, marks the birth of Jesus Christ according to the Julian calendar, which is still used by many Eastern Orthodox churches. The day is celebrated with great reverence and devotion, with traditions that include church services, fasting, and the singing of Christmas carols. It is a time for Orthodox Christians to reflect on the meaning of Christ’s birth and the salvation it brings to humanity.

Orthodox Christmas Day is celebrated according to the Julian calendar, which lags behind the Gregorian calendar by 13 days. The date of January 7th was established by the Eastern Orthodox Church, which continues to follow the Julian calendar for religious observances. The origins of Orthodox Christmas are rooted in early Christian traditions and, like other Christian Christmas celebrations, commemorate the birth of Jesus. However, due to the different dating systems used in the Eastern Orthodox Church, the observance occurs 13 days later than in Western Christian traditions.

Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas with liturgical services, beginning with the vigil on Christmas Eve. The Divine Liturgy is held on Christmas Day, often beginning with a midnight service, and features hymns, prayers, and readings from the Gospels. In some countries, a special meal is shared after church, traditionally including dishes that symbolize Christ’s life and teachings. Fasting is an important aspect of the lead-up to Orthodox Christmas, with many Orthodox Christians observing a period of fasting during Advent before the festive meal and celebrations on January 7th.

On Orthodox Christmas Day, there are a few taboos to keep in mind. First, it is inappropriate to engage in commercial activities or work on this day, as it is a sacred time for prayer and family. In some cultures, it is considered improper to host parties or celebrate in a non-religious way, as the focus of the day is on worship and reverence. Additionally, some Orthodox Christians avoid eating rich foods on Christmas Day, as fasting is considered a significant part of preparing for the holiday. It is also believed to bring bad luck to start major projects or make significant life changes during this time.