Festive services on Christmas night were held in Tskhinval in the Churches of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Most Holy Trinity of the Russian Orthodox Church, in which hundreds of Orthodox Christians took part.
Together with the parishioners, President Alan Gagloev and representatives of the government and parliament took part in the services. The head of state attended services in the churches of the Most Holy Theotokos and the Most Holy Trinity.
A traditional Nativity scene was installed in both churches. It symbolically depicts Christmas events more than 2000 years ago - images of the Infant Christ, the Virgin Mary, Joseph.
After the evening service, a religious procession began from the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, followed by a festive liturgy.
The President congratulated all believers on the upcoming holiday.
“Today the entire Ossetian people are praying for their loved ones. I wish that the Nativity of Christ will bring long-awaited peace to our lands, that people will live in love and support each other. May the day of victory, which we are all waiting for, come very soon. Happy holiday to everyone!” the President said.
Immediately after Christmas and right up to Epiphany, Orthodox Christians have special days - Christmastide. The time when it is customary to do charity work, going to visit and give gifts. Christians will celebrate the next twelfth holiday - Epiphany or Theophany on January 19.
