I quote: "Poland is a land of intriguing traditions traditions and legends. So important is the first star of the night that Christmas Eve has been given the affectionate name of "little star" or "Gwiazdka," in remembrance of the star of Bethlehem. The moment the star appears, everyone exchanges greetings and good wishes. Families unite for the most carefully planned meal of the year, "Wigilia," Christmas supper. According to tradition, bits of hay have been spread beneath the table cloth as a reminder that Christ was born in a manger. An even number of people must be seated around the table or tradition states someone might die in the coming year.
"Although "Wigilia" is a family feast, an empty place setting is left at the table in case a stranger should happen arrive. Traditionally, there is no meat served during "Wigilia." Still, the meal is plentiful and luxurious. It begins with the breaking of the "Oplatek," a semi-transparent wafer of unleavened dough, stamped with scenes of the nativity. Everyone at the table breaks off a piece and eats it as a symbol of their unity with Christ. Custom prescribes that the number of dishes in the meal be odd, 9 or 11. An even number would eliminate any hope of an increase in wealth, children or anything desirable.
"Though the dishes vary between regions, certain items are found almost everywhere. Poppy seed cake, beet soup, prune dumplings and noodles with poppy seed are universally Polish.
After supper, family and guests stay at the table until, at a signal from the host, they all rise in unison and leave. This is the result of an old belief that the first to rise will die before the next Christmas Eve. In some villages the peasants save the crumbs from this festive meal so they can sow them in the Spring. They are said to give medicinal power to the grasses upon which they are sprinkled.
"The remainder of the evening is given to stories and songs around the Christmas tree. It is decorated with nuts, apples and ornaments made from eggshells, colored paper, straw, and painted. Christmas gifts are tucked below the tree. At midnight, the little ones are put to bed and the elders attend "Pasterka," or Shepherd's Mass."
This is how Poland as a country observes the birth of Christ. Of course, some are more devote than others, but almost all of our friends here would celebrate in a similiar way. They welcome the Christ child to the world by observing all these traditions. And to me, their traditions are fascinating.
But, no one seems to be able to tell me why they do the things they do? Where did these traditions come from? And I'm still wondering...Where is Christ among the festivities? My friends have told me that the holiday is empty for them. There is no happiness and joy as they celebrate...only the ritual of keeping the traditions and a holiday from work. Where is Christ? Is he here? Sadly, I believe that Poland as a nation has missed the whole purpose of Christ coming. The church has swallowed up the purpose in rituals of their own. Won't you join me in prayer for the country of Poland, that their God will not be left in the church at mass, but that our friends can see that Christ can make a difference in their daily lives?
Comments
Just passing through, Merry Christmas"
Actually its interesting a Catholic country treats this period as opposed to countries like Scotland where it's really a comercial holiday with a thin vaneer of religious decour. I have lived up to this custom by maxing out my credit card while binge drinking and over eating. Now I'm hidin out from angry friends, enraged ex-girlfriends and upset relatives. We have not the luxury of thinking too deeply into these traditions - false consciousness anyone?