KYIV (Reuters) – A Ukrainian couple, Lesia Shestakova, who is Catholic, and Oleksandr Shestakov, who is an Orthodox believer, are set to celebrate Christmas together on Dec. 25 for the first time.
Ukraine historically followed the Julian calendar, like Russia, and officially observed Orthodox Christmas on Jan. 7. However, earlier this year, Kyiv passed a law shifting the date to Dec. 25 to align with other Western European countries, marking a cultural shift away from Russian influence as Ukraine continues to resist Moscow’s nearly two-year-old invasion.
Previously, Lesia, Oleksandr, and their children would mark Christmas twice – first with Lesia’s parents in December and then with Oleksandr’s parents in January.
Lesia expressed her gratitude for being able to spend Christmas with her husband in the cathedral on Dec. 25. She emphasized the importance of the day as an opportunity to give thanks for being together, alive, and in good health.
Both Lesia and Oleksandr believe that distancing Ukraine from Russian religious and cultural traditions will only serve to strengthen the country.
Oleksandr stated, “Everything Soviet-related – hammer and sickle, stars, idols and monuments to those like (former Soviet leader) Lenin – are being destroyed. And now, on December 25, the country’s rebirth will start, with new holidays.”
The 2022 attack by Moscow prompted many Ukrainians to reject Russian language, culture, and historical ties to Kyiv’s former ruler.
Lesia has already begun preparing traditional Christmas morning food, including her grandmother’s recipes.
(Editing by Kirsten Donovan)
