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Mary gave birth in the middle of the night and the baby was put in a manger.
The first to visit the Savior were the shepherds, to whom an angel appeared and told them about the birth of the Messiah. And the star in the sky carried the baby Jesus, the Babylonian wise men, the Magi. They gave him gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Christians began to celebrate Christmas only from the 4th century. The holiday was established by the Roman Church and was originally celebrated in conjunction with the Baptism of the Lord.
It takes more than a month to prepare for Christmas. In European countries, it is much more popular than the New Year. In cities, Christmas trees are decorated, Christmas markets and entertainment are organized.
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The last month before Christmas is called advent… At this time, believers undergo spiritual cleansing through repentance and, if possible, participate in pre-Christmas services and try to show mercy.
During the four weeks of Advent, it is necessary to prepare for confession in order to participate with a pure heart in the Christmas services and receive the sacrament.
Previously, Advent was considered a period of fasting, but now compulsory fasting is not observed.
On Christmas Eve, December 24, the family gathers for dinner, which should consist of 12 meatless dishes according to the number of apostles of Christ. At the table, it is customary to share wafers (consecrated unleavened breads) and congratulate each other on the holiday, wishing all the best.
At Christmas itself, three festive liturgies are celebrated in churches: night mass, morning (at dawn) and afternoon.
It is customary to set the table generously for the holidays: they cook fried goose, duck or turkey, bake gingerbread cookies, gingerbread cookies, muffins and other cakes.
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There is a sign that Christmas cannot be celebrated in old clothes, so the outfit should be new and beautiful.
At Christmas, children, and sometimes adults, dress up in carnival costumes and walk the streets and houses singing Christmas carols. For this they are treated with sweets.
Holiday attributes
The traditional decoration of Catholic Christmas is a wreath of fir branches, in which candles are woven. Churches and houses of believers are decorated with such wreaths, and in some countries it is customary to hang them on the front door.
For children in the run-up to Christmas, an Advent calendar is prepared, calculated for 24 days before the holidays. There are many options for these types of calendars: with predictions, with gifts, with sweets.
At Christmas, it is customary to give gifts in memory of the Magi who brought gifts to the Child Jesus. In the houses, near the Christmas tree or by the fireplace, special socks are hung, where, according to tradition, Santa Claus must put gifts.
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