Orthodox Christians Mark Christmas with Joyous Celebrations Globally

Despite differing calendars, Orthodox Christians unite in faith and tradition as Christmas is celebrated on January 7.

Orthodox Christians across the globe are joyfully celebrating Christmas this week with church services and family gatherings. While many of the Christian community celebrate this pivotal holiday on December 25, approximately 200 million Orthodox Christians adhere to the Julian calendar, observing Christmas on January 7.

In the Middle East, the significance of the holiday is particularly profound. In Syria's capital, Damascus, a woman participates in the Holy Communion ceremony at the Armenian Apostolic Church of Mar Sarkis. This Christmas holds special meaning as it marks the first festive season for Syrians since the departure of long-time ruler Bashar al-Assad.

Copts in Egypt also carry forward their traditions, as seen with a priest from the Coptic Orthodox Church moving among worshippers at the Archangel Michael Coptic Orthodox Church in Cairo. Meanwhile, in the United Arab Emirates, young worshippers are lighting candles during the Christmas Eve celebrations in Sharjah.

In Bethlehem, located in the occupied West Bank, religious leaders and devotees came together at the Church of the Nativity, recognized as the birthplace of Jesus. Ethiopians participated in heartfelt hymns and candlelight services at Addis Ababa’s Bole Medhanialem Church.

Russia celebrated with great fervor; President Vladimir Putin was spotted at Moscow’s St George's Church, surrounded by festive decorations that adorned the city streets. Serbian Prince Philip took part in age-old customs, clutching a burning oak branch, known as badnjak, in Belgrade.

Armenians in Yerevan honored the season by attending services at St Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, while candle-holding Georgians gathered in Tbilisi, showcasing a blend of cultural heritage and shared faith in these uplifting celebrations.