Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky released a Christmas message on Sunday evening, emphasizing unity and celebration on the same date for all Ukrainians. This comes as the country prepares to celebrate Christmas on December 25 for the first time, following a government decision to change the date from January 7, which is traditionally observed by most Orthodox believers. The move is seen as a departure from the Russian tradition and a step towards embracing a unified national identity.

In the southern Black Sea port of Odesa, churchgoers gathered for Christmas Eve service in the Cathedral of the Nativity, adorned with fir trees and a nativity scene. The atmosphere was one of joy and hope, with one parishioner expressing the sentiment that celebrating Christmas on December 25 symbolizes a new beginning for Ukraine, free from the influence of Moscow.

The decision to change the Christmas celebration date is part of broader efforts to distance Ukraine from its Russian and Soviet past, including renaming streets and removing monuments. The Orthodox Church of Ukraine's formal break from the Russian Orthodox Church in 2014, following Moscow's annexation of Crimea and support for separatists in eastern Ukraine, has also contributed to this shift.

While the historically Russia-linked Ukrainian Orthodox Church continues to observe Christmas on January 7, the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church has aligned its Christmas services with the December 25 date. This move has been met with support from many Ukrainians, who see it as a step towards joining the "civilized world" and embracing a new era of national identity and unity.

Ukrainian Christmas traditions, including a dinner with 12 meatless dishes and the decoration of homes with symbolic items such as didukh, reflect the rich cultural heritage of the country. The decision to celebrate Christmas on December 25 is seen as a significant cultural and national milestone, marking a departure from the influence of the Russian tradition and a step towards a more unified and independent Ukraine.

Naijamatta is a social networking site,

download Naijamatta from Google play store or visit www.naijamatta.com to register. You can post, comment, do voice and video call, join and open group, go live etc. Join Naijamatta family, the Green app.