Orthodox Christians Mark Christmas on January 7 Amid Global Celebrations

Orthodox Christians around the globe observe Christmas on January 7, following the Julian calendar, with profound ceremonies and gatherings. From Syria to Ethiopia, vibrant celebrations showcase a rich tapestry of faith and culture, making this a momentous occasion across multiple nations.

Orthodox Christians across the globe have come together to celebrate Christmas on January 7, marking the birth of Jesus Christ in accordance with the Julian calendar. This observance stands in contrast to the majority of Christian communities that celebrate on December 25, with the world's 200 million Orthodox believers showcasing diverse and rich traditions during this holy time.

In Syria's capital, Damascus, congregants witnessed a poignant moment at the Armenian Apostolic Church of Mar Sarkis, receiving Holy Communion for the first time since the political upheaval following the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad.

Meanwhile, in Egypt, a procession of worshippers gathered at the Archangel Michael Coptic Orthodox Church in Cairo, where a priest from the Coptic Orthodox Church—one of the largest Christian communities in the Middle East—moved past the revelers amidst an atmosphere filled with devotion.

In Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, the glow of candlelight illuminated a young worshipper's face as celebrations commenced on Christmas Eve, showcasing the sense of connection among the faithful.

Not far from this locale, the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, a revered site believed to be Jesus' birthplace, drew believers and religious leaders from various backgrounds for a shared spiritual observance in the occupied West Bank.

Celebrations extended to Ethiopia, where worshippers held candles and lifted their voices in hymn at Addis Ababa's Bole Medhanialem Church, signifying a deep-rooted practice within the Orthodox faith.

In Russia, millions embraced the Christmas spirit, including President Vladimir Putin, who took part in services at St George's Church in Moscow, surrounded by festive decorations that adorned the city streets.

Belgrade's celebrations included Prince Philip participating in a traditional ceremony, holding a burning oak branch known as badnjak, while in Armenia’s capital Yerevan, parishioners gathered at St Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral for profound religious observance.

Candles flickered and songs resonated in Tbilisi, Georgia, where Christians united to honor this auspicious occasion, reflecting love and unity among diverse communities of faith, as the celebration of Orthodox Christmas continued to spread warmth and joy across the globe.