St. Stephen's Day

The second day of Christmas is dedicated to the memory of the Holy First Martyr StephenThe second day of Christmas, December 26, is dedicated to the memory of the Holy Protomartyr Stephen, the third day, December 27 - to the memory of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian (on this day the rite of consecration of wine is performed); the fourth day, December 28 - to the memory of the Holy Innocent Infants of Bethlehem (priests on this day give a special blessing to children).

On Sunday, which falls on one of the eight days of the celebration of Christmas (octave), or on December 30, if these days do not fall on Sunday, the feast of the Holy Family is celebrated: the Child Jesus, the Virgin Mary and Joseph the Betrothed.

The celebration of Christmas ends on January 1, when the Day of the Most Holy Mother of God is celebrated with special solemnity.