January 7 – Orthodox Christmas

Orthodox Christmas is a special time of the year for many. Celebrated mainly among Orthodox Christians, it usually falls on January 7th, instead of December 25th. For those who observe it, Orthodox Christmas is an important religious holiday that’s filled with joy and happiness.

People often take part in long church services during the evening of January 6th, with traditional carols sung throughout the night. After attending such joyful celebrations, many attend feasts together with family and friends to continue the celebration. Truly, it’s an occasion to be cherished and remembered!

HISTORY OF ORTHODOX CHRISTMAS

Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas on January 7th to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. This day is based on the Julian calendar, which is why it falls 13 days later than the more widely used Gregorian calendar. Orthodox Christians are those who follow the teachings of the Eastern Christian churches, which have been in existence since at least the 4th century CE. The core beliefs of Orthodoxy focus on the divinity of Christ, the Trinity, and the authority of Scripture.

TEN THINGS ABOUT ORTHODOX CHRISTMAS

Step into the cherished traditions of Orthodox Christmas with a celebration that blends spiritual reflection, cultural richness, and festive joy. Commencing on January 7th, this unique observance invites you to partake in the warmth of Christmas Eve Vigils and Midnight Liturgies, as Orthodox Christians worldwide commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. Embrace the spirit of the Nativity Fast, preparing your heart and home for a season of joy and reflection. From traditional Christmas foods to iconic carols and heartfelt greetings, discover the customs that make Orthodox Christmas a time of profound significance and shared celebration. Gather with loved ones, exchange blessings, and revel in the beauty of this sacred occasion.

Different Date of Celebration: Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on January 7th, following the Julian calendar. This date is 13 days behind the December 25th celebration of Christmas in Western Christianity, which uses the Gregorian calendar.
Religious Significance: Orthodox Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, similarly to Christmas in other Christian traditions. The day holds deep religious and spiritual significance for Orthodox Christians.
Traditional Nativity Fast: Before the celebration of Orthodox Christmas, adherents observe a period of fasting known as the Nativity Fast. This fast lasts for 40 days and is characterized by abstinence from certain foods and increased spiritual reflection.
Christmas Eve Vigil: The Christmas Eve Vigil is a significant part of the Orthodox Christmas celebration. It involves a festive church service, often held late in the evening on January 6th, leading into the Christmas Day liturgy.
Midnight Liturgy: The Midnight Liturgy is a central element of Orthodox Christmas celebrations. It takes place at midnight on January 7th and is a joyous occasion filled with prayers, hymns, and the proclamation of the birth of Christ.
Icon Processions: In some Orthodox communities, especially in Eastern Europe, processions with religious icons are conducted as part of the Christmas celebrations. The icons are carried through the streets in a symbolic representation of the nativity story.
Traditional Christmas Foods: Orthodox Christmas is often marked by festive meals featuring traditional foods. The menu may include dishes specific to the cultural and regional traditions of each Orthodox community.
Exchange of Christmas Greetings: Orthodox Christians exchange greetings and well-wishes on Christmas, expressing joy and blessings for the holiday season. The greeting “Christ is Born!” is met with the response “Glorify Him!”
Iconic Christmas Carols: Christmas carols play a significant role in Orthodox Christmas celebrations. These hymns, known as “koliadky” or “christosiky,” vary across regions and are sung to celebrate the birth of Christ.
Extended Christmas Celebrations: Orthodox Christmas festivities often extend beyond January 7th, with additional days of feasting, religious observances, and cultural traditions, depending on the specific customs of each Orthodox community.