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Orthodox Christmas Day is observed by Orthodox Christians in Canada on January 7th each year, according to the Julian calendar, which is 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar used by many western countries. This date corresponds to December 25th on the Julian calendar, aligning with the traditional date of Christmas.
The celebration of Christmas on January 7th is rooted in the history of the Christian Church. When the Gregorian calendar was introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582 to replace the Julian calendar, not all countries immediately adopted it. The Orthodox Church continued to use the Julian calendar for religious dates.
In Canada, Orthodox Christmas Day is especially significant for communities with high populations of Eastern European and Middle Eastern immigrants, including those from countries like Russia, Ukraine, Serbia, Ethiopia, and Egypt.
On this day:
Religious Observances: Many Orthodox Christians attend a special church service that often includes a Divine Liturgy. The services are filled with hymns and prayers celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
Festive Meals: Families come together to enjoy a festive meal after fasting leading up to Christmas Day. Traditional dishes from various cultures are prepared and shared.
Gift Giving: While less commercialized than December 25th celebrations in Canada, some families exchange gifts on Orthodox Christmas Day.
Cultural Practices: Specific traditions vary among different ethnic groups; for example, some Ukrainian Canadians may sing carols or have a 'Holy Supper' consisting of 12 meatless dishes symbolizing Jesus's apostles.
Orthodox Christmas Day in Canada remains primarily a religious and cultural observance rather than a public holiday; however, it is an integral part of the festive season for those who celebrate it.
