Father Maxym Lysack estimates there are probably more than 25,000 Orthodox Christians in the city, divided among Greek, Antiochian, Coptic, Ethiopian, Ukrainian, Serbian, Russian, and Romanian Orthodox parishes, and a multicultural church at Christ the Saviour.
Some celebrate Christmas on Dec. 25 while others — including the various Slavic and Coptic churches — celebrate it on Jan. 7.
A young boy lights a candle for the living and the dead as a means of paying homage to both at the front of the church upon entering. Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church held their Christmas service. JULIE OLIVER / OTTAWA CITIZEN
Christmas begins at sunset the night before, Father Maxym said.
“We have a 12-course ritual meal in our homes.” Following that is a prayer service at night, and the liturgy on Christmas morning.
“Following that we break our fast, because we have a fast of 40 days, meaning we’re not eating meat and dairy products for 40 days before the feast.”
He called the mood of the liturgy “joyful.”
A young girl kisses the Virgin Mary at the front of the church. Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church held their Christmas service. JULIE OLIVER / OTTAWA CITIZEN
Deacon Michael La Libertie leads Father Maxym Lysack on a procession through the congregation during the service. Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church. JULIE OLIVER / OTTAWA CITIZEN
Coming up is a series of celebrations lasting through most of January, including the Feast of St. Basil and the Feast of Theophany, or Epiphany.
“It’s a busy month but it’s a beautiful month. It’s a month of great joy and spiritual beauty.”
The long service – more than a couple of hours – was too much for young Stephane Rusu, who slept in his mother’s arms through some hymns. JULIE OLIVER / OTTAWA CITIZEN
Altar boy Nicholas La Libertie (centre) sits with other church members at the front while listening to the service. JULIE OLIVER / OTTAWA CITIZEN
A young boy gets comfy on his mom’s lap as the service wears on. JULIE OLIVER / OTTAWA CITIZEN
Altar boys Nicholas La Libertie (front) and Thomas Howarth lead Deacon Michael La Libertie and Father Maxym Lysack (rear) on a procession through the congregation during the service. JULIE OLIVER / OTTAWA CITIZEN
Parishioner Marta Santanilla lights a candle for the living in front of the church altar. JULIE OLIVER / OTTAWA CITIZEN
Father Maxym Lysack leads the service with prayer. JULIE OLIVER / OTTAWA CITIZEN
