Orthodox Christmas

Orthodox Christmas is a significant religious and cultural event celebrated by the Christian Orthodox Churches following the 'Julian' calendar. The observance commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, the founder of the Christian faith. Essential aspects include attending the Divine Liturgy, the main worship service, usually conducted at midnight, as well as partaking in a sequence of customs and traditions such as carols, fasting, and feasting on specially prepared meals.

The history of Orthodox Christmas spans centuries and has been observed by generations of believers across the globe. In Australia, the Orthodox Christian community, consisting primarily of Greek, Russian, Serbian, Romanian, and other Eastern European ethnicities, has carried this rich heritage and tradition to the country since their migration during the 1950s and 1960s. The observance carries a significant importance amongst these communities. The Australian society, known for its multicultural inclusivity, embraces this event, thereby enriching its multicultural identity.

In Australia, Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on January 7th, owing to the fact that these Eastern Orthodox Churches follow the Julian calendar. The day involves church-based activities, family gatherings, and communal feasting. Church services with hymns and prayers typical of Orthodox Christian liturgy mark the day's beginning. After the church services, families mostly bond over meals featuring dishes that are traditional to their particular ethnic group. The event showcases the diversity of Australia's social fabric and adds to the rich tapestry of cultural celebrations in the country.