Ukrainian Orthodox celebrate Christmas on December 25 for the first time
Many Ukrainians will celebrate Christmas on December 25 for the first time in their lives. Like in Russia, Orthodox Christians in Ukraine traditionally celebrate Christmas on January 7, according to the Julian calendar.
However, following the war with Russia, Kiev is trying to distance itself culturally from Moscow.
In July, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a change in law to move away from the "Russian heritage of celebrating Christmas in January."
In his message on Christmas Eve, Zelensky announced that Ukrainians are celebrating Christmas together.
The Ukrainian Orthodox Church, established in 2018, officially designated December 25 as Christmas Day.
On January 5, 2019, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church gained independence through a decree called "tomos" signed by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople. The Church had been under the Moscow Patriarchate for centuries.
There was a high turnout for the night service held on Sunday across the country.
In the western city of Lviv, less affected by the war's destruction, children in traditional costumes sang Christmas carols in the streets.
However, many Orthodox Ukrainians will continue to celebrate on January 7.
