Χαρούμενες παιδικές φωνές, κάλαντα και Χριστουγεννιάτικα τραγούδια γέμισαν σήμερα Δευτέρα 23 Δεκεμβρίου 2024 τα γραφεία της Ιεράς Μητροπόλεως Πειραιώς στο «ΜΑΡΙΝΑΚΕΙΟΝ ΜΕΛΑΘΡΟΝ».
Μέσα στο εορταστικό κλίμα των ημερών, παιδιά από τα Εκπαιδευτήρια της τοπικής μας Εκκλησίας επισκέφθηκαν τον Σεβασμιώτατο Μητροπολίτη Πειραιώς κ.Σεραφείμ, προκειμένου να λάβουν την ευχή του, αλλά και να του ευχηθούν για τις ημέρες του Αγίου Δωδεκαημέρου.
Ο Σεβασμιώτατος υποδέχθηκε με μεγάλη χαρά τόσο παιδιά του Παιδικού Σταθμού και του Νηπιαγωγείου,όσο και μαθητές του Δημοτικού Σχολείου,του Γυμνασίου και του Λυκείου των Εκπαιδευτηρίων μας,στα οποία ευχήθηκε από καρδιάς,προσφέροντας μαζί τις ευχές και τις ευλογίες του,Χριστουγεννιάτικα κεράσματα και σοκολάτες.
«Νοικοκύρης του σπιτιού είναι ο Χριστός,ο οποίος είναι ο Θεός που έχει την αιώνια ζωή σε όλους μας χαρίσει»,είπε ο Σεβασμιώτατος στα παιδιά,ευχόμενος «να ευλογεί ο Θεός το Σχολείο μας». «Μέσα στις καρδιές σας να μπαίνει το Φως του Χριστού που είναι φως αγάπης, ελπίδος και δυνάμεως», πρόσθεσε, τονίζοντας πως «ο Χριστός έγινε παιδί μικρό, βρέφος, για να αγιάσει τον άνθρωπο από τη μικρή ηλικία έως και τη μεγαλύτερη».
«Είστε στο καμάρι μας,είστε η χαρά μας». «Είμαστε χαρούμενοι και καμαρώνουμε για εσάς». «Είστε τα πρόσωπα για τα οποία όλοι μας δοξάζουμε το Θεό», σημείωσε ο Σεβασμιώτατος συγχαίροντας όλους και ζήτησε από τα παιδιά να μεταφέρουν στις οικογένειές τους τις ευχές μας και την αγάπη μας.
Στην συνέχεια, χριστουγεννιάτικες μουσικές ακούστηκαν από την Φιλαρμονική του Δήμου Πειραιά, τα μέλη της οποίας επισκέφθηκαν τον Σεβασμιώτατο δίνοντας με τον τρόπο αυτό τις δικές τους ευχές.
Απευθυνόμενος στα μέλη της ΦιλIn a heartfelt message during a recent festivity, the Archbishop emphasized the urgent need for peace in a world marred by conflict and suffering.Reflecting on the tragic wars affecting the region, he dedicated the festive season to prayers for divine inspiration towards harmony and understanding among people. He articulated that peace is not a commodity to be bought but a treasure earned through love and mutual support. The Archbishop encouraged attendees to express their hopes for peace through music, which he described as a powerful prayer that can reach the heavens. He concluded by commending the community for their musical contributions and wishing health and joy to their families.In a vibrant celebration of tradition, the annual New YearS carols were performed for the esteemed Bishop, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the community. This event, held on December 25, 2024, brought together local musicians and families, who filled the air with melodious tunes that resonate with hope and renewal. Attendees were treated to a captivating display of talent,as the carolers,dressed in festive attire,sang both classic and contemporary pieces,creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The Bishop expressed gratitude for the community’s efforts in preserving these cherished customs, emphasizing the importance of unity and joy during the holiday season. This gathering not only highlighted the importance of cultural traditions but also fostered a sense of belonging among participants, reinforcing the community’s commitment to celebrating its heritage.
Discussion between Time.news Editor and Expert on Greek Christmas Traditions
Time.news Editor: Today, we witnessed a delightful celebration filled with children’s joyful voices singing “kalanta”, or Christmas carols, which are such a critically important part of Greek holiday traditions. Can you tell us more about the importance of kalanta in Greek culture?
Expert: Absolutely! Kalanta are not just songs; thay embody the spirit of community and celebration during the festive season in Greece.Traditionally, these carols were sung on Christmas Eve, often by children who would go door-to-door, bringing blessings and good wishes to their neighbors while collecting treats in return.This practise fosters a sense of togetherness and joy in the community.
Editor: That’s fascinating! I’ve read that the first two verses of one popular kalanta begin with “Good evening my lords,if this be your will.” It truly seems to reflect a mix of respect and celebratory spirit.
Expert: Exactly! The cultural greetings in kalanta reflect the societal values of respect during the holiday season. Over time, while the custom of singing has evolved to fit modern practices, the essence of sharing good wishes remains vital. It’s interesting how these carols adapt while still keeping their roots strong.
Editor: I see that in many communities, especially among the Greek diaspora, like in Boston, children perform these carols to celebrate their heritage. This interaction at the Consulate General must be a beautiful sight, blending tradition with community spirit.
Expert: Indeed, events like those in Boston highlight the significance of maintaining cultural traditions even outside Greece. Children not only sing kalanta but also connect with their roots and share the joy of the season with their families and the larger community. It preserves their identity and reinforces cultural bonds.
Editor: And what about the diversity of these carols across different regions in Greece? Does the style or melody change significantly?
Expert: Yes, the kalanta do indeed vary from region to region in Greece. Different areas have unique melodies, and the lyrics can also differ, reflecting regional dialects and local customs. This diversity enriches the greek christmas tapestry, showcasing how vibrant and varied the country’s traditions are.
Editor: This discussion shines a light on how rich and meaningful greek Christmas traditions, especially kalanta, are. It’s a splendid way to embrace the festive spirit while honoring cultural legacy. Thank you for sharing these insights with us!
Expert: Thank you for having me! I hope that more people become aware of and appreciate these wonderful traditions, as they truly embody the spirit of the holidays.