Orthodox Christians of Azerbaijan celebrate Christmas

Today the Orthodox Christians celebrate the Nativity of Christ.

Festive services are held in all Orthodox churches in Azerbaijan.

This is a special day for believers, reflecting respect and wisdom towards each other, a time when it is worth forgetting any disagreements and giving a place for joy.

Before the onset of the holiday, Orthodox Christians usually observe the 40-day Nativity Fast, during which they do not eat eggs, meat and dairy products, alcohol, while fish is allowed only sometimes. Fasting begins on November 28 and lasts until January 7. Since the last day before fasting falls on the feast day of the holy Apostle Philip, the fast itself is also called Filippovka (Pilipovka). It is necessary to sit down at the Christmas table with the appearance of the first star, which is called the Bethlehem star. The Holy Evening begins with prayer and the lighting of a Christmas candle.

Report presents photos from the Cathedral of the Myrrh-Bearing Women in Baku, where the Christmas service was held in honor of the holiday.