Title: Holy Supper on Christmas Eve
Categories: Holiday
Yield: 1 Servings

LISA CRAWLEY TSPN00B--------------------------- TRADITION

Traditionally, this meal was called the Holy Supper. It begins when the first star appears. A white tablecloth is used, representing the swaddling clothes of Christ. Hay is put on the cloth, under the table, or under the cloth, to remind us of the simple and humble surroundings of the cave in which Jesus was born. A large round loaf of bread is the center piece of the table, representing Christ, a piece of this bread is distributed to all those present, usually by the head of the house. A candle is placed in the center of the bread, representing the Star of Bethlehem. Some families pass around a thin wafer-like bread which has designs and pictures relating to Christmas on it. Raw Garlic is eaten dipped in honey and salt to show the bitterness and sweetness of life in this world. The supper on Holy Night generally consists of 12 different foods, symbolic of the 12 Apostles. These are nonmeat foods, and in most instances, are made without the use of dairy products for the Eve of Christmas was a traditional day of strict fast and prayer. Some of the foods eaten on Christmas Eve are the following: Bread, Honey, Garlic, Potatoes, Mushroom Soup, Bobajka, Derelye, Meatless Stuffed Cabbage, Beans or Peas, Fish, Sauerkraut, Fruit and Nuts The meal begins with the Lord's Prayer and prayers of Thanksgiving for all the blessings of the past year and good things in the coming year. Additional prayers, Tropar and Christmas Carols are part of the meal and the evening.

From: Tspn

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