Many in the Orthodox Christian Church, most notably present in Eastern Europe, Southern Europe, Africa, and West Asia, celebrate the Christmas Holidays according the Julian Calendar, first developed by Julius Cesar in 46 B.C. which predates the Gregorian Calendar developed by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582. Although technically Christmas Day in the Julian Calendar is December 25th when pairing it with the more widely used Gregorian Calendar it lands Christmas Day around January 7th.
Many practicing Orthodox Christians fast leading up to Christmas and the Christmas Eve meal is generally meat and alcohol free including twelve dishes to represent the twelve apostles.
Affirmation
We know nearly every day of the year is filled with a holy and sacred celebration from one of the world religions. We know that all days are holy as all days contain life and life is holy.
Gentle Call to Action
Consider, when it is appropriate and you have check in to make sure it’s okay to attend, attending a holy service or celebration that takes place in a faith community that is different from your own.
Resource
Look up a local Interfaith Group in your city, town, or state. They will be able to provide more information about cultivating interfaith experiences and relationships.