Many cultures are rich with beautiful Christmas traditions, and it’s the perfect time of year for people to open their hearts to the customs and beliefs of their neighbors, like the Vorobyev family from Becker.
Paul Vorobyev and his family came to the United States from the former Republic of Kyrgyzstan in Russia when he was only five, bringing their traditions and love of Christmas along with them.
His family’s beliefs put more importance on the spiritual side of Christmas, Jesus himself and why he came, versus focusing on Santa Claus and all the trappings that go along with Him.
They decorate their home for the season, however it’s not a priority so it’s kept simple. For example they may not have a Christmas tree but they do put up lights.
“Christmas in our culture is very warm, it’s gathering with family and friends,” said Vorobyev. “Our approach is to be very peaceful during these days, and to try and free up any strained relationships with ourselves and others.”
He explained a lot of emphasis is put in preparing their children so they also feel the happiness and joy of the season.
The Vorobyevs and other Russians in the community belong to a small Christian church that meets in a member’s home. Combining church and family is one of the ways they provide their children with opportunities to express happiness and joy on Christmas.
On Christmas Eve their Sunday School holds a program in which the children sing and read poems they’ve memorized. A sermon affirming Christ’s birth and a prayer of thanks to God for sending a savior into the world follows the program, and at the conclusion children and seniors receive gifts of fruit and bags of candy.
Afterwards friends and family gather for an evening of celebration with lots of food and sweets. Christmas games and songs are enjoyed and gifts are exchanged.
“It’s a good opportunity for distant family to come together and sometimes find peace with each other as well as with the Lord,” said Vorobyev.
Their holiday meals don’t follow a traditional American Christmas menu. For example, they often have a variety of salads, mashed potatoes and turkey instead of the ham many people are familiar with.
One custom that is found across many cultures is the numerous sweets and desserts found this time of year. Vorobyev’s wife, Mariya, is originally from Germany and bakes lots of traditional German treats to share with family and friends.
On Christmas morning their children open their gifts, receiving toys as well as useful presents such as clothes and toiletries.
After breakfast they attend Christmas Day worship, which is led by the church’s youth group. Along with the sermon there is singing and Christmas music played by the orchestra.
“There is usually lots of gift exchanging but it’s secondary to the meaning we try to illuminate with the birth of Jesus,” said Vorobyev. “A very merry Christmas and a blessed New Year filled with health and happiness is wished for everyone.”
