Patriarch leads Orthodox Christmas ceremonies

Source: B92

January 7, 2016

The burning of oak branches or logs is a part of Serbian Christmas traditions.

The ceremony was attended by a large number of citizens, including Belgrade Mayor Sinisa Mali.

"We have lighted the badnjak and thus fulfilled our duty to our ancestors," the patriarch said to the faithful, assembled in front of the temple, adding that the badnjak is "a tree that gave great light and is a symbol of what we celebrated."

Irinej noted that he believed the ceremony was performed by Serbs not only in the homeland but also abroad - "which makes us united."

He said that "Jesus brought love and entered our hearts and souls and all our homes, both in Serbia and everywhere else across the world."

"May the light of the badnjak shine on our life, our path, the path of Christ," said Irinej, wishing that its flame and warmth would shine on Serbia "decorated by the most beautiful ornaments that our ancestors fought for - and into our hearts, making us nobler and better to each other."

The patriarch later served evening prayers in the St. Sava Temple, and on Christmas morning served liturgy in the Cathedral Church of St. Michael the Archangel in Belgrade.

A large number of believers, Serbian President Tomislav Nikolic, Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Belgrade Stanislav Hocevar, representatives of the Islamic Community, Crown Prince Aleksandar and Princess Katarina Karadjordjevic, and other officials and dignitaries attended.

Earlier in the week, the head of the Serbian Orthodox Church in his Christmas message urged unity among Serbs, and peace and good will among people and nations.