Ukrainian Church Switches to New Calendar: How Usyk Congratulated on Christmas
Oleksandr Usyk, the world champion in boxing under WBC, WBA, IBF in heavyweight, congratulated Ukrainians on Christmas on January 7, 2023, emphasizing the difference in celebrating Christmas in Ukraine. Meanwhile, on May 24, 2023, the Archierarchical Council of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church approved the transition to the New Julian calendar. This means that starting from 2023, most Orthodox Christians in Ukraine began celebrating Christmas on December 25.
In his festive address, Usyk said:
“Christ is born! Let us glorify him! Happy Christmas. I wish everyone love, harmony, warmth, food on the table, father and mother at home, and the joyful eyes of grandmother.” - Oleksandr Usyk
Thus, Usyk not only congratulated Ukrainians on this important holiday but also expressed wishes for peace and harmony in families.
According to the new calendar, religious holidays will be celebrated according to the new scheme:
- Christmas - December 25
- Protection of the Mother of God - October 1
- Theophany - January 6
- Saint Nicholas Day - December 6
This is a significant change for many believers who are accustomed to celebrating Christmas on January 7.
Usyk, who last stepped into the ring in May 2025, also noted that he will continue his boxing career and intends to fight Deontay Wilder. 'I am interested in this fight. He is a former world champion, known and very strong boxer. He is one of the best in heavyweight over the last decade,' Usyk added.
Thus, the transition of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church to the New Julian calendar and the celebration of Christmas on December 25 are significant events for the religious community, and Usyk’s words became a symbol of hope and unity in Ukraine. This change highlights the evolution of traditions and adaptation to modern realities, which may influence the perception of the celebration among believers. Importantly, such events occur in the context of ongoing challenges facing the country and can serve as a foundation for uniting society around common values.