The Orthodox Christians on January 7 celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ or Christmas according to the old style. On the eve and on Christmas, when it is remembered the birth of the Savior by Virgin Mary and the bringing of the first gifts by the magi, a series of special services are held. The parishioners are urged to attend the services because this feast is an occasion for coming closer to God, priest Teodor Borta, of the Metropolitan Cathedral “God’s Birth”, has told IPN.

The priest said Christmas is one of the greatest feasts of the liturgical year. The magi were the first who saw baby Jesus. “The magi brought gold like to an emperor, frankincense like to a prophet, and myrrh like to a bishop. They went to the stable in Bethlehem to see Christ and kneel to him after encountering difficulties. This shows that they had great faith,” stated Teodor Borta.

The original meaning of Christmas is a special church service, or mass, to celebrate the birth of Christ. The story of the Nativity or the events surrounding the birth of Jesus are particularly important in religious celebrations of Christmas.

Prior to Christmas Day, the Eastern Orthodox Church practices the 40-day Nativity Fast in anticipation of the birth of Jesus. The Christians who fasted can take communion on Christmas. The final preparations for Christmas are made on Christmas Eve, and many families’ major observation of Christmas actually falls in the evening of this day.

On January 8, it is observed the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, while on January 9 – the Feast of Saint Apostil and First Martyr Stephen.