Catholics have vigil on December 24
Catholics are getting prepared for the holy night before Christmas.
In Europe, families decorate Christmas trees and make cribs on that day. They also cook the vigil dinner - this tradition came to Belarus in XVIII. The dinner starts with reading aloud an extract from the Gospel about the nativity of Christ, and sharing the oblay. In Belarus, this dinner is also called "kollyva" (the name originates from the name of the porridge made of cereals which is supposed to be on the table on that day). Only fast meals should be served. Non-expected guests are welcomed on that day also.
Carols - Christmas songs for the whole family - create a special atmosphere. The culmination is the holy mass on the night before Christmas.
The common tradition for all catholics on that day is participation in the festive liturgy.
