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On Synaxis of the Mother of God, let us honor and remember the blessed Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus Christ and a symbol of strength and love.
Prepare to honor the mother of God on December 26 with the celebration of Synaxis of the Mother of God! This day is an important one in the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition, as it commemorates the gathering of angels, saints, and humans to pay homage to the Virgin Mary as the mother of Jesus. It is a time for prayer, reflection, and gratitude for her role in bringing salvation to humanity. So join in on this beautiful day and express your love and devotion to the Mother of God in your own special way.
<div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>432</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Council of Ephesus</div><div class='timeline-text'>The Council of Ephesus is held, officially stating that Mary is the Theotokos, or 'God-bearer' – the mother of God Himself.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>500s</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Early Celebrations</div><div class='timeline-text'>Early instances of a feast honoring Mary the day after Christmas are documented, laying the foundation for Synaxis of the Mother of God.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1156</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Byzantine Recognition</div><div class='timeline-text'>The Byzantine Empire officially recognizes December 26 as a day to honor Mary, solidifying the celebration in the Eastern Orthodox tradition.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1700s</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Growing Celebration</div><div class='timeline-text'>The celebration of Synaxis of the Mother of God spreads throughout Orthodox Christian communities worldwide during this century.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1950</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Veneration Increases</div><div class='timeline-text'>On the heels of dogmatic affirmations by the Sacred Magisterium, global veneration for Mary increases, heightening the significance of celebrations like Synaxis.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>Present</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Modern Celebrations</div><div class='timeline-text'>Orthodox Christians around the world continue to celebrate Synaxis of the Mother of God with church services, prayers, and acts of devotion.</div></div></div>
<div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>1</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Attend a church service</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>The best way to celebrate Synaxis of the Mother of God is by attending a church service dedicated to her. This is a great opportunity to reflect on her role in the Christian faith and offer prayers of gratitude.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>2</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Create a Marian altar</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Set up a special altar in your home dedicated to the Mother of God. You can decorate it with candles, flowers, icons, and other items that hold significance to you. Use this space for prayer and reflection throughout the day.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>3</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Share a meal with friends and family</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Food is an important part of celebration in many cultures. Gather your loved ones and share a meal together, while also taking time to discuss the significance of Synaxis of the Mother of God and how she has impacted your life.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>4</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Donate to a charity in honor of Mary</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>In honor of the Mother of God's compassion and love for all, consider making a donation to a charity that helps those in need. This is a meaningful way to celebrate her and continue her legacy of kindness.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>5</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Read and reflect on the story of the Nativity of Mary</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Take some time to read and meditate on the story of the Nativity of Mary, which is celebrated on the same day as Synaxis. This will deepen your understanding and appreciation for the role of the Mother of God in the Christian faith.</p></div></div>
<div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>A</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Honors the mother of Jesus</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>The Synaxis of the Mother of God is an important holiday in the Orthodox Christian Church that honors Mary, the mother of Jesus. She holds a special place in the hearts of believers and is considered an icon of love, strength, and devotion.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>B</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Brings people together</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>This feast day also serves as a way to bring members of the church community together. It is a time for prayer, worship, and fellowship, which strengthens relationships within the church and reinforces a sense of unity and togetherness.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>C</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Reminds us of humility and devotion</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>The Synaxis of the Mother of God serves as a reminder of Mary's humility and devotion to God. Her acceptance of her role in carrying and raising Jesus showcases her unwavering faith and obedience to God's plan. This inspires believers to strive for similar virtues in their own lives.</p></div></div>
Synaxis of the Mother of God is celebrated on December 26 every year. In 2024 Synaxis of the Mother of God will occur on a Thursday.
2023
Dec 26
Tuesday
2024
Dec 26
Thursday
2025
Dec 26
Friday
2026
Dec 26
Saturday
2027
Dec 26
Sunday
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