Orthodox believers in Vitebsk celebrated Christmas
Many believers in the Vitebsk region met Christmas in churches, which were decorated with fir trees and the Star of Bethlehem. Services were held in all more than 150 churches and cathedrals of the region. In the main church of the Vitebsk diocese, the Holy Assumption Cathedral, the Divine Liturgy was led by Archbishop Dmitry of Vitebsk and Orsha. Christmas messages from His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus' and Metropolitan Pavel of Minsk and Zaslavl, Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus, were also read. The Primate of the Belarusian Orthodox Church, in particular, noted that the Christian mission is to do good not occasionally, but constantly. "It is within our power, with God's help, to do good deeds every day," the Metropolitan emphasized.
On the morning of January 7, the advent of the holiday was met with the ringing of bells. At noon, a solemn prayer service was held in the Holy Assumption Cathedral, also led by Archbishop Dimitry. At the end of the service, the head of the diocese congratulated the faithful on the Nativity of Christ, reminding them that this is a holiday of mercy and kindness, and that the Savior's birthday should be met with pure thoughts, an open soul, and love.
– It is important to remember that the Lord came for each of us. Always carry God's grace in your heart. May the God of love and peace be with you! – the bishop addressed the Orthodox Christians.
Chairman of the Regional Council of Deputies Vladimir Terentyev, Deputy Chairman of the Regional Executive Committee Vladimir Penin, and other officials came to congratulate the clergy and parishioners. Vladimir Terentyev thanked Archbishop Dimitry for his titanic work for the benefit of the Orthodox Church and presented him with a bouquet of white roses. The head of the parliamentary corps wished everyone goodness and warmth of the family hearth.
– In these bright days, we must remember those who have faced life's problems and need help. Do not chase material wealth, but rather think more about spiritual wealth and share the warmth of your hearts with your neighbors, – noted Vladimir Terentyev.
The twelve days from the Nativity of Christ to the Epiphany Eve are considered holy. The Nativity Svyatki in the church calendar is an important winter holiday. On these days, it is customary to visit relatives, come to visit with congratulations and gifts. And also to thank loved ones for their care and love.