The Nativity Season
"What is the True Meaning of Christmas?"
This question is one of the very few theological queries that is commonly asked in America. Yet for American Orthodox Christians, despite our theological certainty and wealth of tradition, the Nativity season is a complicated time. During America's great season of feasting, we traditionally fast. Our winter festal season culminates on Theophany, two weeks after most Americans' holiday is done. Particularly for converts, it may be a struggle to partake of the fullness of Nativity while still sharing in the warmth and fellowship of the Thanksgiving and Christmas traditions of our families. How do we embrace our Orthodox practice amidst the conflicting demands of our culture?
This web page aims to compile resources and inspiration for Orthodox Christians and inquirers throughout the Nativity season. Please check in periodically, as we plan to add material on the Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos, Thanksgiving, St. Nicholas Day, Nativity and more, right up until the Leavetaking of Theophany. We hope to provide food for thought and for the spirit throughout the fast, and a feast of good words as we celebrate the Feast of the Word's Birth in the Flesh.
The Entrance of the Theotokos + November 21
Today is the prelude of God's goodwill and the prophecy of the salvation of men. The Virgin appears openly in the temple of God and foretells Christ to all. So let us cry to her with loud voices: Rejoice, thou who art the fulfillment of the Creator's providence.
--Troparion of the Feast, Tone 4
Today in the Holy Orthodox Church we celebrate the feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple. Leading the procession into the Temple were virgins with lighted tapers in their hands, then the three-year-old Most-holy Virgin, led by her father and mother. The virgin was clad in vesture of royal magnificence and adornments as was befitting the “King’s daughter, the Bride of God” (Psalm 44:13-15). Following them were many kinsmen and friends, all with lighted tapers.
Nativity Fast Begins on November 15
Detail from 11th Century Nativity Fresco, CappadociaThis Sunday, November 15, 2009, is the beginning of this year's Nativity Fast. The Nativity Fast is one of the four Canonical Fasting Seasons in the Church year. This is a joyous fast in anticipation of the Nativity of Christ. In the weeks between now and December 25, Orthodox Christians prepare themselves to celebrate to birth in the flesh of our Lord Jesus Christ. As we begin the fast, both believing Orthodox and inquirers may find the following resources helpful as they approach this time of preparation:
