Orthodox Christmas: A celebration full of traditions and differences!

Orthodox Christians around the world celebrate Christmas not in December, as the majority of Western society does, but 13 days later, on January 6th and 7th. This phenomenon is due to the use of the Julian calendar, which dates back to Julius Caesar and has remained historically anchored in parts of the Orthodox Church. While Catholic and Protestant believers celebrate their festivities on December 24th and 25th, many Orthodox churches, such as the Russian Orthodox and Serbian Orthodox, continue to follow the old calendar. In Ukraine there was also a split in the Orthodox community as a result of the conflict with Russia, which has led to some communities now also celebrating on December 25th Kosmo.at reported.

Historically, the Julian calendar was used by all churches until the 16th century, but due to its inaccuracies, the Gregorian calendar was introduced in 1582. However, the Russian Orthodox Church renounced the reform and stuck to its traditions, not least because religious practices were largely banned after the October Revolution of 1917. Christmas was abolished as a religious holiday by the Bolsheviks; many customs were moved to New Year's Eve. Only with the collapse of the Soviet Union were believers able to celebrate Christmas again on January 6th BR.de further reported.

Festivities and customs

Preparations for Christmas in Russia include a 40-day fast during which animal products and certain foods are largely avoided. On January 6th there is a special tradition of celebrating “Sochelnik”, the holy evening, when people fast until the first star is seen. After dark, believers gather for a Christmas service and ring in the festival by lighting a candle. Traditionally, “Kutja”, a sweet porridge made from various ingredients, is served on Christmas Eve to symbolize immortality. On January 7th, it is customary to visit family and friends and exchange gifts - a custom that remains strongly intertwined with the legacy of communist New Year celebrations.