Orthodox Christmas Day

Orthodox Christmas Day is on January 7, while Catholics and other Christians celebrate this date on December 25. This is due to different calendars: Julian and Gregorian. This is a long-awaited holiday for believers!

History

The exact date of Jesus’ birth is unknown. We can only judge from information in the Bible, but it was definitely the middle of winter. From this event, the chronology is conducted—imagine how long ago Christ was born. Christmas is first mentioned in the 4th century; the Roman bishop Liberius told people about this. In the 2nd century, on the day of Theophany, three events were: the birth of Jesus, Baptism, and the offering of gifts.

According to the Gospel of Luke, the shepherds nearby were the first to be notified of Jesus’ birth. An angel came down to earth and announced it. The three wise men also learned about this—they noticed a bright star in the sky, signifying the birth of the Savior. The wise men hastened to the manger and brought gifts to Christ.

Until Christmas, believers strictly observe fasting. This tradition was founded because Jesus also cleansed his mind and body through fasting. On Christmas Eve, preparations for a delicious meal begin. Usually, the meal takes place after the service.

Interesting Facts

It is noteworthy that:

• the unchanging symbol of Orthodox Christmas Day is the spruce. Researchers believe that the Virgin Mary and her husband Joseph closed the cave where their son was with spruce branches;
• bells with angels, which decorate the space, symbolize the shepherds who learned about the birth of Christ;
• Orthodoxy arose in the 1st century on the day of Pentecost;
• leading states in Orthodoxy: Greece, South Ossetia, Moldova, Georgia, Russia.

How to Celebrate

Find out more about the holiday. This is an amazing story that we remember every year. It does not matter at all that in different parts of the world they celebrate on different days—Christmas Day unites us, despite our territorial differences.

When is Orthodox Christmas Day in 2025?

Orthodox Christmas Day is observed on January 7 each year.

Observations