On December 25, Orthodox Christians celebrate one of the most important holidays in the new style - Christmas. This date marks the birth of the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ, and is one of the twelve feasts. Along with church traditions, this day is full of signs and rules that are passed down from generation to generation.
In 2023, the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) switched to the new Julian calendar. This means that all non-transitory holidays are now celebrated 13 days earlier than according to the Julian calendar. However, some believers still adhere to the old style, which remains their right.
According to the Julian calendar, this day marks the memorial day of Saint Spyridon of Trimyphus, one of the most revered saints in Orthodoxy. He is known as a miracle worker and protector of the disadvantaged.
Traditions and signs for Christmas
There are many folk signs related to the weather:
- Clear weather in the morning promises frosty holidays.
- Cloudy - to early spring.
- Bright sunshine during the day heralds a fertile summer and a frosty New Year.
- If it snows on December 25, the next year will be prosperous.
In churches, the All-Night Service begins at midnight, and in the morning, the festive liturgy begins. Believers pray for the forgiveness of sins, God's grace, and help.
What can't you do on Christmas?
There are a number of prohibitions in place for Christmas:
- You cannot do heavy physical labor.
- Quarrels, swearing, envy, and laziness are prohibited.
- It is not recommended to take out trash, go hunting or fishing.
- It is popularly considered a bad omen to wear dirty or old clothes.
Christmas is a day of family reunion. It is customary to go to church, light candles, receive guests, and sing carols. In homes, a little straw is symbolically left on the floor - this brings good luck. The festive table is decorated with dishes, but alcohol is allowed only in small quantities.
Name days are celebrated by: Maria, Alexander, Vasily, Dmitry, Konstantin, Mikhail, and others. According to the old style, the day of the angel is celebrated by Spiridon and Alexandra.
The celebration of December 25 combines traditions, faith, and omens. This day symbolizes the beginning of a new life, joy, and God's grace, which millions of believers carry in their hearts.
