Poroshenko explains why he decided to celebrate Catholic Christmas

Addressing the Ukrainians on the occasion of Christmas, which has been enshrined by law as a holiday of December 25th this year, the President informed he would celebrate the Nativity of Jesus Christ twice.

"For the first time we have celebrated Christmas by the Gregorian calendar together with the majority of the Christian world, together with Europe," said Petro Poroshenko. “In no way do we encroach on the long-standing good tradition to celebrate Christmas on January 7. We appreciate this tradition and honor it. Choosing a calendar is the right of everyone, but the task of the state is to guarantee such a right and provide a possibility of choice. Personally, I have decided to celebrate this holiday twice."

Metropolitan of Zaporozhye and Melitopol Luke stated that the policy-makers who voted for the new state holiday of Christmas on December 25 were not motivated either by religious beliefs or the protection of human rights, since it is an anti-Orthodox political project.

Read also

Pope Leo: 'No One Possesses the Whole Truth'

Roman pontiff emphasizes humility, service, and inclusivity in church life; remarks draw concern over perceived relativism.

Midwest Serbian Diocese Announces 2025 Winter Youth Retreat at New Gracanica Monastery

High school students invited for prayer, fellowship, and spiritual renewal this December in Illinois.

Persecuted Parish of the UOC is Now Holding Services in a Construction Trailer

The faithful previously endured the violent seizure of their church by OCU raiders and the arson of the house where they had been gathering for prayer.

Faithful Gather in Chicago to Honor St. John the Hieromartyr at Historic Cathedral He Founded

Abp. Daniel and Bsp. Peter lead feast of St. John of Chicago at Holy Trinity Cathedral, where the saint’s relics are enshrined.

Authorities to Ukrainian Doctor: If You Admit Met. Arseny, You're Fired

Met. Arseny explained why he was refused hospitalization after a hypertensive crisis.

Met. Saba Leads All-Night Vigil Honoring St. Raphael of Brooklyn

Faithful gather at historic St. Nicholas Cathedral, the first parish founded by the saint in 1895.