Orthodox Christmas in Lebanon

Background:

In Lebanon, Orthodox Christmas is celebrated by the Eastern Orthodox Christian community, which follows the Julian calendar. This calendar runs 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar, so Orthodox Christmas falls on January 7th each year, rather than December 25th.

History:

The history of Christianity in Lebanon dates back to the time of Jesus Christ. Over centuries, various Christian denominations have taken root in the country. The Eastern Orthodox Church is one of those denominations, with a significant presence in Lebanon alongside other Christian communities.

Traditions:

The traditions associated with Orthodox Christmas in Lebanon mirror those of other Eastern Orthodox countries but are also infused with local culture. They include:

• Religious Services: Special church services mark the period leading up to Christmas, culminating in a Midnight Mass on January 6th that leads into Christmas Day.
• Fasting: Many adherents participate in a period of fasting before Christmas, abstaining from certain foods as a form of spiritual preparation.
• Feasting: After the fast and church services, families gather for a festive meal that often includes dishes like roast lamb or chicken, rice, and regional delicacies.
• Home Decoration: Similar to Western traditions, some families decorate their homes with Nativity scenes and Christmas trees.
• Gift-Giving: While less commercialized than December 25th celebrations, exchanging gifts is still a part of the festivities for some families.
• Community Celebrations: In areas with large Orthodox populations, communal celebrations may occur including parades and public displays.

Activities on the Day:

On Orthodox Christmas Day in Lebanon:

1. Families attend church services to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
2. People visit family and friends to exchange well-wishes and gifts.
3. A large family meal is shared featuring special dishes prepared for the occasion.
4. Children often receive small presents from their parents or godparents.

While not as widely observed nationally as Christmas on December 25th due to demographic differences, Orthodox Christmas remains an important religious holiday for many Lebanese Christians who uphold its traditions and spiritual significance each year.