Photo credit: mos.ru (CC BY 4.0)
The Catholic and Protestant churches, as well as some local Orthodox churches, celebrate one of the main Christian holidays. On the night of December, 25, believers celebrate the Nativity of Christ, Parliamentskaya Gazeta writes. Many Russians abroad celebrate Christmas according to the Gregorian calendar.
The Gregorian calendar is two weeks ahead of the Julian calendar. The day before, on December, 24, millions of Christians in Russia and the world celebrated Christmas Eve in churches. Christmas services are held in all Catholic churches in Russia.
In the Roman Catholic Church, Christmas is considered the second most important holiday after Easter. On the eve of the holidays, Catholics go through the Advent period. This is the time when people fast, confess, receive communion, and help those in need.
On Christmas Eve, before going to church, Catholics families gather at the table, break bread, and also eat kutya and other Lenten dishes. In some countries, 12 Lenten dishes are served, according to the number of apostles. On the eve of Christmas, believers forgive each other and wish all the best. Children expect Santa Claus to come to them on Christmas Eve and bring gifts.
Russkiy Mir
