Vigil of Christmas

Our primary liturgical service on the Vigil of Christmas, known as the Royal Hours, is a deeply spiritual and liturgical preparation for the Feast of the Nativity. Celebrated only three times a year—on the eves of Nativity and Theophany and on Holy and Great Friday—the Royal Hours include readings from the Psalms, Old Testament prophecies, Epistles, and Gospels, all pointing to the coming of Christ. The five days leading up to Christmas, from December 20th to 24th, are known as the pre-festive period, during which the faithful prepare spiritually through prayer, fasting, and reflection.

Traditionally, a strict fast is observed on Christmas Eve, though this fasting is now optional, with abstaining from meat still encouraged. The Vigil includes the celebration of the Divine Liturgy of our Holy Father Basil the Great with Vespers on Christmas Eve, marking the beginning of our celebration of the nativity. The services are rich with prophecies and hymns that reflect on the Incarnation and the fulfillment of God's promises, helping the faithful to meditate on the significance of Christ's birth and His role as the Savior. This Vigil is a profound way to enter into the mystery of the Incarnation, preparing hearts and minds to celebrate the birth of Jesus with joy and reverence.

The "Holy Supper"  is a cherished tradition in many Byzantine Catholic homes, celebrated on Christmas Eve. This special meal marks the end of the Nativity Fast and the anticipation of Christ's birth. The table is often set with a white tablecloth symbolizing Christ's swaddling clothes, with hay placed underneath to represent the manger, and an extra place setting for a deceased family member or a stranger. The meal typically consists of twelve meatless dishes representing the twelve Apostles, such as borscht, mushrooms, fish, pierogi, and varenyky, all prepared with love and care. The supper begins with a prayer and the lighting of a candle, symbolizing Christ as the Light of the World. Families may sing carols or read from the Nativity story, and a piece of blessed bread is shared with wishes for health and blessings. This Holy Supper is a time for families to come together, reflect on the spiritual significance of Christmas, and strengthen their faith and unity, fostering a sense of continuity and reverence for the sacred mysteries of the Nativity.