Ukrainian Orthodox Christians are gearing up for a significant change this year as they prepare to mark Christmas on December 25, a departure from their traditional celebration on January 7.
This shift aligns with the Western Gregorian calendar, a move initiated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in July to distance the country from its historical ties to Russia’s calendar customs.
Zelensky highlighted the unity this change signifies, stating, “We all celebrate Christmas together. On the same date, as one big family, as one nation, as one united country.”
This change has brought families like Lesia Shestakova and Oleksandr Shestakov, who used to observe Christmas separately due to their differing Catholic and Orthodox backgrounds, together for the first time in the cathedral.
Lesia expressed her joy, saying, “There is finally a day in Ukraine which my husband and I can spend together in the cathedral and thank God that we are together, alive, and in good health.”
The Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), established in 2019 as an independent church, has also shifted its Christmas date to December 25.
This move signifies a break from the Russian Orthodox Church due to disputes over Crimea’s annexation and Moscow’s support for separatists in eastern Ukraine.
Despite this change, many still follow the historically Russia-linked Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), continuing to celebrate Christmas on January 7.
The UOC cites its 2022 split from Moscow, allegedly triggered by Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, as the reason behind this divergence. However, skepticism remains among many regarding the nature of this split.
Across Ukraine, people engaged in prayers and candle lighting, with cities like Lviv hosting vibrant celebrations where children in traditional attire sang carols and participated in festive processions.
While a considerable number have embraced the OCU in recent years, millions still adhere to the UOC’s traditions, leading to a divide in Christmas celebrations.
Consequently, some Ukrainians are expected to celebrate both dates, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and diversity in their Christmas festivities.
Source-BBC
