Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas. According to the Julian calendar, Christmas Eve was commemorated by Orthodox Christians across nearly 60 countries on Thursday, January 6, with traditional celebrations in countries like Ukraine that included meals with 12 dishes containing no meat or milk, presented in honor of the 12 Apostles of Christ. On Christmas Day, faithful congregations gathered for masses, with His Holiness Patriarch Kirill I of Moscow and All Russia holding a service at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, which was also attended by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and his wife.

Colombis Dispatcher: I’m going to make you work for your dollar, say something with that great radio voice.

Ted Williams: When you’re listening to nothing but the best of oldies, you’re listening to MAGIC 98.9. Thank you so much, God Bless you.

Ted Williams: …and then alcohol and drugs and a few other things became a part of my life. I got two years clean. And I’m trying hard to get it back and hopefully somebody from one of these television or radio stations will say, “Hey, I need a voice-over or I need something…” 

In the Holy Land of Israel and Palestine, celebrations were held at the birthplace of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem and also in Jerusalem. Among those conveying their good wishes was His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, who also encouraged Orthodox congregants to remain strong in their faith.

We wish all Orthodox Christians a blessed remembrance of the birth of Lord Jesus. May we come together in respect for all beliefs and a shared vision of global peace for all.

http://en.rian.ru/russia/20110107/162063544.html, http://english.ruvr.ru/2011/01/07/38950353.html, http://www.sify.com/news/pope-expresses-support-for-orthodox-churches-news-international-lbgvEeifebj.html, http://www.jpost.com/Travel/TravelNews/Article.aspx?id=202445, http://www.france24.com/en/20110106-high-security-egypt-copts-celebrate-christmas-church-bombing-new-year, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kirill_I_of_Moscow
Ukraine
http://www.nrcu.gov.ua/index.php?id=148&listid=137401