Christmas celebrations in Belarus

One of the most important and celebrated Christian holidays – Christmas – holds a special place in the hearts of Belarusian people. Historically, Belarus is home to people of different religions. The country celebrates the holiday twice, on 25 December – with Roman Catholics and Protestants, and on 7 January – with Orthodox Christians, which makes the holiday season in Belarus longer by several weeks. Many Belarusian families light Christmas candles both in December and in January…

On Christmas Eve, the night between 24 and 25 December, thousands of Belarusians gathered for solemn services at more than 600 Catholic churches and parishes across the country. Metropolitan of Minsk and Mogilev of the Roman Catholic Church in Belarus, Archbishop Tadeusz Kondrusiewicz led the Christmas service at Belarus’ main cathedral, the Cathedral of Saint Virgin Mary.

In his message of greetings the leader of the Roman Catholic Church in Belarus called on believers to protect peace and accord not only in their souls, but also in the country: “I wish Merry Christmas to all people of good will. Jesus Christ came into the world for all people. Therefore, I urge everyone to lend a helping hand to each other, greet each other with love in order to protect peace and accord in our country forever.”

Together with the entire Catholic world, Belarus celebrated Christmas as part of the celebrations of the Year of Mercy declared by Pope Francis. It began on 8 December from the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. To mark this symbolic year, the Holy Doors were opened in eleven largest Belarusian churches on 13 December. All believers can enter this door and get forgiveness for their sins or the sins of their loved ones after a confession, blessing, or prayer.

Photo: Christmas service at Farny Cathedral of Grodno.