What do Orthodox Christians do for Christmas?
Some Orthodox Christians observe the Nativity and Adoration of the Shepherds (those who visited baby Jesus) on January 6, followed by the Adoration of the Magi (three wise men or kings) on January 7. Church liturgies on Orthodox Christmas Eve (January 6) may be longer than usual but many people find them inspiring.
Do Orthodox Christians celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas?
Eastern Orthodoxy For the Eastern Orthodox, both Christmas and Epiphany are among the Twelve Great Feasts that are only second to Easter in importance. The period between Christmas and Epiphany is fast-free. During this period one celebration leads into another. 29 December is the Orthodox Feast of the Holy Innocents.
Do Orthodox Christians use Christmas trees?
But Orthodoxy has a very different view on Christmas trees. The Christmas tree is derived, not from the pagan yule tree, but from the paradise tree adorned with apples on December 24/January 7 in honor of Adam and Eve. Hence the Orthodox Church considers the Christmas tree completely biblical in origin.
Why is orthodox Christmas on January 6th?
Orthodox Christians didn’t split from the Roman Catholic church until 1054, by which time Christmas had moved to January 6th, so again some Eastern Orthodox churches stuck with the Julian calendar which is why Christmas Day in Russia is January 7th. The day of this major feast in the Armenian Church is January 6th.
What are the 12 days of Christmas Orthodox?
The “12 Days of Christmas” is a concept of Christian theology that describes the time period from Christ’s birth to the arrival of the three wise men, also called the magi. It starts on Christmas Day, December 25 and is celebrated till January 6, the day before Epiphany.
Is decorating a Christmas tree a sin?
Deuteronomy 16:21 says: All in all, whether you put up a Christmas tree or not, the worship should always be about the Lord and nothing else. If that is your driving force, whether or not you put up a tree is solely up to you.
How do Orthodox celebrate Easter?
Easter celebrations in Orthodox Christian communities usually include a spit-roast lamb dinner and a display of hard-boiled eggs, dyed red to symbolize the blood of Christ. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary dyed eggs red to celebrate the Resurrection of Christ and to celebrate life.
How does the Orthodox Church celebrate Christmas?
Orthodox churches celebrate Christmas Day with various traditions. For example, many churches light a small fire of blessed palms and burn frankincense to commemorate the three wise men’s (also known as Magi) gifts to baby Jesus. Some parishes have joint celebrations for Christmas Day.
When is Eastern Orthodox Christmas?
Orthodox Christians in central and eastern Europe and other parts of the world celebrate Christmas on January 7. The Christmas dates around January 7 may vary among some churches. The day is a time of reflection, inner thoughts and healing in many eastern European countries.
Should a Christian celebrate Christmas?
Reasons Why Christians Can Celebrate Christmas . As Christians, we are no longer under the law of sin and death and thus are free to live in Christ. We can celebrate Christmas with our eyes on Jesus and our gaze on eternal things rather than the material things of this world. These are some reasons that Christians can celebrate Christmas.
Is Christmas only for Christians?
Christmas is an annual celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. In Western Christianity , Christmas is celebrated on December 25. For Christians, Christmas is considered the second most holy day of the year while Easter is the holiest day.
