On December 25, Orthodox Christians celebrate one of the most important holidays - Christmas in a new style. This date marks the birth of the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ, and is one of the twelfth holidays. 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 fixed holidays are now celebrated 13 days earlier than in 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 day of memory of Saint Spyridon of Trimifuntsky, one of the most revered saints in Orthodoxy. He is known as a miracle worker and protector of the underprivileged.
Traditions and omens for Christmas
There are many omens associated with the weather among the people:
- Clear weather in the morning promises frosty holidays.
- Gloomy - until early spring.
- The bright sun in the afternoon portends 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 the festive liturgy begins in the morning. Believers pray for forgiveness of sins, God's grace and help.
What can not be done on Christmas?
A number of prohibitions apply at Christmas:
- It is impossible to engage in heavy physical work.
- Quarrels, slander, envy and laziness are prohibited.
- It is not recommended to take out garbage, go hunting or fishing.
- People consider it a bad omen to wear dirty or old clothes.
Christmas is a day of family unity. It is customary to go to church, light candles, receive guests and sing carols. In homes, they symbolically leave some straw on the floor — it brings good luck. The festive table is decorated with dishes, but alcohol is allowed only in small quantities.
Name days are celebrated by: Maria, Oleksandr, Vasyl, Dmytro, Konstantin, Mykhailo and others. According to the old style, the day of the angel is celebrated by Spyridons and Alexanders.
The December 25 celebration 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.
