The Orthodox Church in Slovakia has concluded its 40-day Christmas fast, during which believers abstain from meat and dairy products. Following the Julian calendar, Orthodox Christians begin celebrating Christmas on 6 January with a morning Divine Liturgy and evening services, while the Feast of the Nativity of Jesus Christ is observed on 7 January. Traditional Christmas Eve meals remain meatless and include cabbage soup without sausage, beans or dumplings, along with bread, honey and garlic.
At the same time, Catholics and other Christian churches are marking the Feast of the Epiphany, also known as Three Kings’ Day. According to the Conference of Bishops of Slovakia, the feast recalls the visit of the Magi, Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River and his first miracle in Cana of Galilee. A long-standing tradition on this day includes the blessing of homes and water.
President Peter Pellegrini said the holiday should serve as a reminder of peace, mutual respect and understanding, while extending Christmas wishes to Orthodox believers and Epiphany greetings to others. Speaker of Parliament Richard Raši also wished citizens a peaceful and joyful festive day, highlighting the unifying value of these celebrations across Slovak society.
Source: TASR
