As of September 1, 2023, the Orthodox Church of Ukraine has adopted a new Julian ecclesiastical calendar.

Subscribe to our Viber: news, humor, and entertainment!

Subscribe

As a result of the church reform, the date of Christmas celebration has changed, which in turn affects the start and end dates of the Christmas fast. The Christmas fast, also known as Philip's Fast, lasts for 40 days leading up to Christmas.

Рождественский пост, фото из свободных источников1

With the transition to the new Julian calendar, Christmas in Ukraine will be celebrated on December 25. The Christmas fast for 2024 in the new style begins on November 15 and ends on December 24. Those who continue to celebrate Christmas on January 7 must observe the Christmas fast from November 28, 2024, to January 6, 2024.

Рождественский пост, фото из свободных источников2

Popular articles now Will manage without TCC involvement: who has been given the right to mobilize men November electricity tariffs will leave wallets empty $3500 pensions, Russian passports, and a missing disability worth 5 million UAH: how the head of the National Police, Oleg Trachuk, keeps everyone in the dark Men will be allowed to leave the country under new rules: what will change in November Show more

The last day before the fast, when meat and dairy products are still allowed, is known among Orthodox Christians as the Eve of Fasting. The Eve of Fasting for the Christmas fast in the new style will be on November 14, and in the old style – on November 27.

Believers who wish to embark on a path of restrictions during this period should understand the meaning of the Christmas fast. Its essence lies in gaining a certain spiritual experience. During this time, it is customary to refrain from bad habits, intimacy, and merriment, as it is a time for focus and earnest prayer.

True fasting is associated with prayers, repentance, forgiveness of offenses, renunciation of evil thoughts, and abstaining from temptations. The main goal of the Christmas fast is spiritual purification. During this time, one should avoid conflicts with relatives and loved ones, as well as shield oneself from sinful thoughts and passions. It is believed that spending the Christmas fast in prayer is far more important than merely abstaining from food.

Рождественский пост, фото из свободных источников3

One of the main dishes during the fasting days is porridge — oatmeal, buckwheat, wheat groats, rice, and more. However, it is not cooked with milk, as during fasting, animal products, except for fish and seafood, are avoided. Vegetables, various greens, fruits, mushrooms, and berries, as well as nuts, are allowed. Bread, of course, remains on the table, prepared according to fasting recipes. Vegetable oils such as sunflower, olive, and nut oils can be consumed.

In addition to daily prayers during the Christmas fast, strive to read the Scriptures as often as possible, particularly passages from the Gospel that are read on different days of the fast in churches (you can learn about these stories by referring to the church calendar).

Рождественский пост, фото из свободных источников4

For those who want to observe the Christmas fast according to church teachings, it is important to know the following rules:

- A few days before the start of the fast, one can repent and receive a blessing from the priest.

- One must not allow malice, envy, or despair into their soul. If doubts arise about being able to endure the fast until the end, one should seek advice in church.

- During this period, it is necessary to avoid entertainment events, holidays, and feasts. This is important both from a spiritual and practical perspective. Feasts will not tempt you with a variety of dishes.

Рождественский пост, фото из свободных источников5