Ukrainian Orthodox Christians marked a historic Christmas on December 25, a departure from the traditional January 7 celebration, in a move seen as distancing the country from Russia. President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized unity, stating, “All Ukrainians are together, on the same date, as one big family, one nation, one united country.”
In the city of Odesa, churchgoers gathered for Christmas Eve services at the Cathedral of the Nativity. Decorated with festive elements, the atmosphere reflected a desire to celebrate independently from Moscow, as one parishioner expressed, “This is a holiday with the whole of Ukraine, with our independent Ukraine.”
The change in celebration date stems from a law signed by Zelensky in July, aiming to “abandon the Russian heritage of imposing Christmas celebrations on January 7.” This move is part of broader efforts to erase traces of Russian and Soviet influence, including renaming streets and removing monuments.
The Orthodox Church of Ukraine officially separated from the Russian Orthodox Church in 2014, following Moscow’s annexation of Crimea. The rift has led to shifts in allegiance among priests and parishes, with the new Orthodox Church of Ukraine gaining momentum and support from the government.
Worshippers gathered in Kyiv at St Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery for a Christmas service led by Metropolitan Yepifaniy. Ukrainians across the country expressed support for the date change, with one attendee in Odesa stating, “We wanted to support what is happening in Ukraine now.”
Despite these changes, the historically Russia-linked Ukrainian Orthodox Church continues to observe Christmas on January 7. The Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church also opted for December 25 celebrations, aligning with the Western calendar.
In Lviv, a city relatively untouched by the war, sentiments echoed a desire to “join the civilized world.” Ukrainians embrace Christmas traditions, including a dinner on Christmas Eve with 12 meatless dishes, unique decorations like sheaves of wheat (didukh), carol singing (kolyadky), and nativity scenes.
As Ukraine forges its path independent of Russian influence, the Christmas celebration on December 25 symbolizes a significant step toward unity and a new chapter for the nation.
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