Orthodox Christians to celebrate Christmas for Four Days
Long Island parish opens doors to public for services on December 24 - 27

East Meadow, NY – Members of Holy Trinity Orthodox Church here will raise their voices in song for four days to celebrate the feast of Christmas. Services to proclaim the birth of Jesus Christ will be celebrated each day from Thursday, December 24 through Sunday, December 27 and are open to the public.

“Having reached the conclusion of Advent, the church begins to celebrate the joy of Christmas,” said Father Martin Kraus, parish rector, “Unlike radio stations which will stop playing Christmas carols on December 25th, we’re just getting started with the festivities.”

Beginning with Christmas Eve, Orthodox Christians will celebrate by remembering the people who were directly involved in the events surrounding the birth of Christ, and how it transformed their lives.

On Thursday, December 24, Christmas Eve services at Holy Trinity Church in East Meadow will be celebrated at 9 am and 7 pm. The theme of these services will focus on the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and include special hymns featuring the singing of “God is with us!” while verses from Isaiah are read.

On Friday, December 25, the Christmas Day divine liturgy will be celebrated beginning at 9:30 am, during which more Christmas hymns will be sung. The texts of these hymns have been used by Orthodox Christians since the 5th century.

On Saturday, December 26, parishioners will continue the celebration at 9:30 am by remembering the Virgin Mary and her honored place in the Church as the Mother of God. On Sunday, December 27, the community will remember Joseph the Betrothed, who cared for Jesus Christ and His mother.

Photos from the celebration of Christmas

Complete schedule of events