While some celebrate this holiday on December 25, in Russia, where there is an Orthodox majority, it takes place on January 7.
The Orthodox Church shares much of the teachings, beliefs, and rituals with the Catholic Church, but there are certain differences, such as Christmas. While some celebrate this holiday on December 25, in Russia, where there is an Orthodox majority, it takes place on January 7. And after the believers have fasted for forty days.
What accounts for this difference? The end of the First World War brought changes. Many of the countries where Christian Orthodoxy was the predominant religion came under the influence of states that already used or embraced the Gregorian calendar. However, the Orthodox Church did not apply the change and continued to be governed by the Julian, whose December 25 falls on January 7.
Meanwhile, on the 6th Christmas Eve, the obligatory Mass takes place at midnight for the birth of Jesus (corresponding to Midnight Mass in Catholicism). During these days, the faithful gather to perform open-air ceremonies to bless the water. Then they get together to eat and hang out as a family. But no gifts are given on this day either at the European giant; gift-giving takes place during the New Year.
Source: La Verdad
I am an experienced and passionate journalist with a strong track record in news website reporting. I specialize in technology coverage, breaking stories on the latest developments and trends from around the world. Working for Today Times Live has given me the opportunity to write thought-provoking pieces that have caught the attention of many readers.
