Andrzej Kanthak, the Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to South Africa, sends Christmas greetings
24.12.2020
Christmas is an extraordinary time, a holiday that has become a permanent part of our Polish tradition. In the minds of Poles, Christmas has become a special time for the family. We all meet at one table, forgetting about old regrets and disagreements, we wish each other all the best for the coming year. Although, due to the pandemic, this year's Christmas will be slightly different from all the previous ones, we are waiting for it with longing and we will spend it solemnly, but exceptionally this year with only the closest family.
Christmas Eve is the most solemn day of the year in Poland, which is characterized by a large number of rituals and traditions. The Christmas tree is probably the most popular, especially its dressing, in which all household members participate. As decorations, both previously purchased baubles and chains, as well as hand-made gingerbreads and garlands are used. Another no less important Christmas Eve tradition is the dinner itself, which consists of 12 regional dishes. This custom refers to the 12 apostles and the 12 months of the year. The most popular dishes include: mushroom soup, carp, borscht with dumplings, dumplings with mushrooms, makówka, kutia or compote of dried fruit. An important culinary tradition is baking cakes and making dumplings together.
The Christmas Eve dinner in Poland begins when the first star appears in the sky. It is a symbol of the Bethlehem Star that showed the Three Kings the place where Jesus was born. During the supper, we share the wafer (opłatek), express wishes to our loved ones and sing or listen to Christmas carols. At the Christmas Eve table, there must also be an additional space for an unexpected guest. It symbolizes the memory of those who cannot spend this year's holidays with us. It also happens that it is prepared with a deceased family member in mind.
One of the important Christmas Eve rites is the solemn holy mass known as the Midnight Mass, because it is celebrated at midnight. During the midnight Mass, all church bells in Poland are ringing loudly, sublime church songs and carols are sung, especially "God is born", announcing the beginning of the day and Christmas on December 25. On December 26, it is celebrated in memory of St. Stephen, the first martyr for the Christian faith.
On the occasion of Christmas many deep and joyful experiences, inner peace, perseverance and joy, time spent with loved ones in a warm family atmosphere and all the best in the coming new year wish
The Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to South Africa, Andrzej Kanthak, together with the employees of the Polish Embassy in Pretoria
The Christmas concert that was held on 10.12.2020 can be watched via YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQsOa-iNFzA&feature=youtu.be
