Epiphany Dumenko: 99% of OCU communities celebrate Christmas according to the new calendar

The head of the OCU, Epiphany Dumenko, said that the vast majority — 99% — of OCU communities have already switched to celebrating Christmas according to the so-called New Julian calendar. He expressed confidence that over time, all Ukrainians will join this practice, calling for joint service to the interests of the Ukrainian people.

According to Ukrinform, Dumenko made this statement in an interview broadcast on television. «Within the framework of the recognized local Orthodox Church of Ukraine, 99% already celebrate in the new style. I am convinced that over time, all Ukrainians who are still hesitating will join in. We call for unity, so that together, as one big Ukrainian family, we thank God and jointly serve the interests of the Ukrainian people,» the head of the OCU emphasized.

As reported, three parishes of the OCU in the Ivano-Frankivsk region decided to celebrate Christmas on January 7, 2025, continuing to follow the old style. This comes amid the general transition of the Church to the New Julian calendar, which provides for the celebration of Christmas on December 25.