Today, December 25, Catholics all over the world, including Belarus, celebrate the Nativity of Christ.
This is one of the most important Christian holidays, with roots going back thousands of years.
As the name suggests, the holiday is dedicated to the birth of the Son of God, Jesus Christ, by the Virgin Mary.
Tradition
Once, before the beginning of our era, an archangel appeared to Mary with the news that she would become the Mother of God.
In the Bible, the birth of Christ is often referred to as the result of the Immaculate Conception.
According to the Gospel, Jesus was born in Bethlehem. Thus began the countdown of the new – our – era.
Then Emperor Augustus ordered a census of the population of the Roman Empire.
Mary and Joseph went into the city to enter their names on the list.
Star of Bethlehem
Since there was no place to stay overnight in Bethlehem, they spent the night in a cave used as a barn for cattle.
It was here that the Son of God was born. The news of his birth was brought by an angel to the shepherds, who were the first to come to bow to the baby.
At that moment, the sky was lit up by the brightest star, called the Star of Bethlehem.
The Magi came to its light. They brought with them gifts - frankincense, myrrh and gold.
How is Christmas celebrated today?
Today, churches, celebrating the Nativity of Christ, according to a long-standing tradition, decorate their walls with wreaths with four candles.
The first candle is lit on the first Sunday, on the second – two candles are already burning, on the third – three, on the fourth – four.
Well, believers decorate their homes. Traditionally, under the tree or on the Christmas table they put figurines depicting the Virgin Mary, Joseph, a manger with a baby.
As for the festive table, it is customary to set 12 dishes on this day - according to the number of apostles, disciples of Christ.
Lighted candles are also placed on the table. If there is a fireplace in the house, it is also lit.
Christmas is considered a family holiday.
Since ancient times, it has been customary for relatives and friends to gather in a close family circle on December 25 and give each other gifts.
