Orthodox New Year in Australia

Date and Background: The Orthodox New Year, also known as the Julian New Year, is celebrated on January 14th according to the Gregorian calendar. This date corresponds to January 1st in the Julian calendar, which was used prior to the adoption of the Gregorian calendar. The Orthodox Church continues to use the Julian calendar for religious dates, and thus some Orthodox Christians observe New Year's Day on January 14th.

History: The difference in dates between the two calendars is due to a reform of the ancient Roman calendar initiated by Julius Caesar and a later reform by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582. When many countries adopted the Gregorian calendar over time for secular purposes, the Orthodox Church remained with the Julian reckoning for its liturgical observances.

Traditions: In Australia, where there is a significant population of Eastern Orthodox Christians from Greek, Russian, Serbian, Macedonian and other backgrounds, the day may include:

• Attending church services where special liturgies are held.
• Traditional meals that often include foods such as spit-roasted meats or special pastries which vary depending on cultural heritage.
• Family gatherings and celebrations with music and dance.
• Exchange of gifts and well-wishes among family members and friends.

Activities: Individuals who celebrate this day in Australia typically do so within their own cultural communities. Activities could include:

• Social events organized by community centers or churches.
• Private parties at homes or venues that serve traditional foods and play ethnic music.
• Public cultural festivals or dances that showcase traditional customs.

Despite being a significant date for some Australians of Orthodox Christian faith, it remains largely unrecognized by the wider Australian public as it is not a national holiday. The celebration is mostly confined within respective ethnic communities maintaining their religious and cultural heritage.