Didukh and Kalachi symbolic of a family reunion for Christmas Eve observances. On Christmas Eve, January 6, after a day of strict fasting in remembrance of the hardship that the Theotokos endured as she and Joseph travelled to Bethlehem, preparations of a spiritual and physical nature set the mood for this Holy Night. Twelve special meatless dishes are prepared for the holy meal, which are symbolic of the 12 apostles who gathered at the Mystical Supper. "Sviata Vechera" (Holy Supper) is prepared with no meat or dairy products. Hay is put under the table and under the table cloth as a reminder of the humble place of Christ's birth. On the middle of the table are placed three Kolachi (round braided bread). In the middle of the kolach, a candle is placed. As dusk approaches, the head of the house brings in a "Didukh" (a sheaf of wheat) and sets it in a place of honour near the icons. As the star appears, the candle is lit; the family gathers around the table. Prayers are recited and an ancient Christmas carol "Boh Predvichny" (God Eternal) is sung. The first dish of the twelve is always Kutia (cooked wheat mixed with honey and ground poppy seed), followed by borsch, fish which may be prepared in various ways including pickled herring, cabbage rolls, varenyky with various fillings - potato, sauerkraut, poppy seeds or prunes. Mashed beans, mushrooms with gravy, compote stewed fruit, pampushky or various pastries. At midnight, family members attend Christmas Divine Liturgy, a celebration of Christ's birth. The traditional greeting is: "Khrystos Razdayetsia" (Christ is born), to which is replied "Slavim Yoho" (Let us glorify Him). Written by Pauline Semeniuk. Photo research by Merle Maximiuk.Thank you to Pauline and Merle for their contribution.
Yorkton Archives: We are seeking stories and photos of events, celebrations of people from various ethnic groups who settled the Yorkton region. Example: Christmas and New Year events of Scandinavians, Germans, Rumanians, Hungarians, Ukrainians, Polish, Russians, Americans, and the very first settlers from Eastern Canada (mostly Ontario) and the British Isles.
Contact Terri Lefebvre Prince,
Heritage Researcher,
City of Yorkton, Box 400
37 Third Avenue North
Yorkton, Sask. S3N 2W3
306-786-1722
[email protected]
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