January 07

On January 7 in Eastern Orthodox churches using the Julian calendar, the liturgy commemorates a collection of saints including André Bessette, Canute Lavard, Charles of Sezze, Felix and Januarius, Lucian of Antioch, and Raymond of Penyafort. The Synaxis of John the Forerunner and Baptist celebrates the gathering in honor of St. John the Baptist. Worshippers attend divine services marked by scripture readings, hymns, and prayers dedicated to these figures. Each saint celebrated has a unique story of faith, martyrdom, or miracles that inspires the faithful. This feast unites believers in remembrance of holy lives that span centuries and cultures. Observances may include special church services, processions, and acts of charity.

While most of the world celebrates Christmas on December 25, many Eastern and Oriental Orthodox churches, along with some Rastafari groups, observe the Nativity on January 7. This date reflects the Julian calendar 25 December, which currently falls thirteen days behind the Gregorian calendar. Festivities include special liturgies, nativity plays, and communal meals featuring traditional dishes. In Russia, Ukraine, Serbia, and Ethiopia, families gather for festive feasts and exchange gifts. The holiday is marked by processions, carol singing, and prayers that honor the birth of Jesus Christ. In Armenia, January 7 is also observed as the Remembrance Day of the Dead, adding a solemn dimension to the celebrations. Through colorful rituals and heartfelt devotion, believers reaffirm the message of peace and goodwill that Christmas embodies.

Saint André Bessette (1845–1937), also known as Brother André, was a member of the Congregation of Holy Cross in Montreal, Canada. Renowned for his humility and faith, he built Saint Joseph's Oratory and was credited with numerous healings attributed to his intercession. Brother André devoted his life to caring for the sick and promoting devotion to Saint Joseph. After his death, devotion to him grew rapidly, leading to his beatification in 1982 and canonization in 2010. Pilgrims continue to visit the Oratory seeking comfort and miracles. His feast day on January 7 celebrates his legacy of compassion and service. It inspires people to trust in faith and care for others selflessly.

Born in 1096, Canute Lavard was the Duke of Schleswig and a key figure in uniting parts of Denmark and Germany. Known for his fairness and devotion to justice, he championed peace between warring factions. His murder in 1131, allegedly plotted by jealous nobles, transformed him into a revered martyr. Canonized in 1169, Saint Canute became one of Denmark's patron saints and a symbol of national unity. Pilgrims long made journeys to his burial site at St. Bendt's Church in Ringsted seeking divine favor. His feast day on January 7 honors his legacy of courage, reconciliation, and faith. It reminds believers of the enduring power of righteous leadership.

Saint Charles of Sezze (1613–1670) was a Franciscan lay brother known for his deep humility and spiritual writings. Living a life of manual labor and contemplation near Rome, he composed reflections on the Passion of Christ and the Blessed Virgin. His mystical visions and miracles attracted followers who sought his counsel and prayers. Beatified in 1880 and canonized by Pope John XXIII in 1959, his legacy endures through his published spiritual autobiography. Each year on January 7, Franciscan communities around the world remember his example of devotion and service. His feast day encourages the faithful to seek simplicity, prayer, and compassion in their daily lives.

Saints Felix and Januarius were Christian martyrs who suffered persecution for their faith in the early centuries of the Church. Their joint feast on January 7 recognizes their unwavering commitment and the enduring legacy of their witness. Liturgical services include readings recounting their trial and testimonies to inspire the faithful. Observers reflect on themes of courage, solidarity, and spiritual devotion. This day offers a chance to remember the sacrifices made by the earliest Christians in defense of their beliefs.

Lucian of Antioch was a renowned early Christian scholar whose biblical exegesis and defense of orthodoxy shaped the development of Church doctrine. He faced persecution and eventual martyrdom around 312 AD for his steadfast faith. His feast day on January 7 honors his intellectual contributions and his witness to Christian truth. Liturgical commemorations include hymns and readings reflecting on his teachings and his legacy of scriptural study. Believers are encouraged to draw inspiration from his dedication to faith and learning.

Saint Raymond of Penyafort was a 13th-century Dominican known for compiling the Decretals of Pope Gregory IX and advancing the study of canon law. Born in Barcelona in 1175, he founded the Mercedarian Order to ransom captives and served as confessor to the pope. His feast on January 7 commemorates his legal scholarship, pastoral care, and missionary zeal. Liturgical services highlight themes of justice, mercy, and the responsible use of church law. Faithful observers reflect on his example of service and dedication to both law and charity.

The Synaxis of John the Forerunner and Baptist honors the role of John the Baptist as the herald of Christ. Celebrated on January 7 in the Julian calendar, this feast follows the Nativity of Christ and focuses on John’s humility and prophetic mission. Liturgical services feature hymns praising his witness and Gospel readings about his ministry. Faithful reflect on John’s call to repentance and his example of total devotion to God. This observance offers spiritual renewal at the start of the calendar year through the memory of the Forerunner’s life.

On January 7, the Eastern Orthodox Church commemorates a range of saints and events according to its fixed liturgical cycle. The day typically includes memorials for early martyrs, holy bishops, and venerable monastics. Services incorporate chanted prayers, Vespers, and the Divine Liturgy, with readings and hymns highlighting the virtues of those honored. This observance provides the faithful an opportunity to connect with the historical depth of Orthodox tradition and seek the intercessions of the saints commemorated. It underscores the communal and spiritual continuity of the Church.

In Russia, Christmas is celebrated on January 7 due to the Russian Orthodox Church’s use of the Julian calendar. The holiday begins with a strict Nativity Fast and culminates in the Christmas Eve supper called ‘Sochelnik,’ featuring dishes like kutya. Church services, including the Divine Liturgy, are held late at night or early morning with choral music and candlelit processions. Families attend together, sharing blessings and festive pastries. Christmas in Russia emphasizes spiritual reflection, family unity, and the joy of Christ’s birth through age-old traditions.

Ukrainian Orthodox communities celebrate Christmas on January 7, following the Julian calendar. The holiday begins with a 40-day Nativity Fast and a festive Christmas Eve supper called ‘Sviat Vechir,’ where families share twelve symbolic dishes. Carolers (‘Koliadky’) travel from house to house, spreading cheer and blessings. Church services include the Great Compline and Divine Liturgy, often beginning before dawn. Christmas in Ukraine blends deep religious devotion with vibrant folk traditions, uniting families and communities in song, prayer, and festive gatherings.