As Orthodox Christians around the world celebrate Christmas, President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden have offered a heartfelt message of goodwill, reflection, and hope. In their statement, the Bidens conveyed their warmest greetings for a day filled with joy and contemplation, recognizing the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ and the enduring message of love, hope, and renewal it brings to humanity.
A Message of Faith and Unity
Orthodox Christians, who observe Christmas on January 7 following the Julian calendar, mark the holiday with deep spiritual significance. President Biden’s message acknowledged this sacred tradition and its resonance not just among Orthodox Christians but for believers worldwide.
“Jill and I send our warmest greetings for a day of joy and reflection,” the president wrote. “We join Orthodox Christians in giving thanks for the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ and the hope and love He brought to our world.”
This sentiment underscores the shared values of faith, compassion, and community that bind Christians across different traditions during the holiday season.
Solidarity with Suffering Communities
In his message, President Biden emphasized the importance of remembering those who are enduring hardship, particularly Orthodox Christians facing challenges due to war, conflict, deprivation, and oppression.
“Today, we pray for Orthodox Christians who are suffering around the world,” Biden stated. “They, like all human beings, are created in the image of God, and deserve safety and security, dignity and respect.”
The president’s words reflect a broader commitment to advocating for human rights and religious freedom globally. Orthodox Christian communities in regions such as Ukraine, the Middle East, and parts of Africa have faced significant adversity, including displacement, persecution, and violence. The Bidens’ message serves as a reminder of the United States’ support for these communities and its dedication to upholding principles of justice and human dignity.
Religious Freedom and Advocacy
President Biden reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to championing religious freedom, a cornerstone of human rights and democratic values. This principle resonates particularly strongly during a time when many faith communities face restrictions on worship, discrimination, or violence due to their beliefs.
“We will continue to advocate for these core principles, including religious freedom,” the statement declared.
The administration’s emphasis on religious freedom aligns with broader efforts to address global conflicts, promote peace, and protect vulnerable populations. In recent years, the U.S. government has worked with international partners to combat religious persecution and support communities striving to practice their faith without fear.
Hope Amid Darkness
Drawing from Scripture, the president invoked a powerful reminder of resilience and hope in the face of adversity. Quoting from the Gospel of John, he wrote:
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
This passage serves as a source of inspiration for Orthodox Christians and people of faith worldwide, emphasizing the enduring power of hope, faith, and love even amid challenging circumstances.
Orthodox Christians, Biden noted, embody this light through their efforts to bring healing and hope to countless communities. From charitable initiatives to spiritual guidance, their contributions have a profound impact both within the United States and across the globe.
Orthodox Christmas Traditions
Orthodox Christmas is celebrated with rich traditions, including liturgical services, feasting, and acts of charity. The celebration often begins with a solemn vigil on Christmas Eve, followed by the Divine Liturgy on Christmas Day. Many Orthodox Christians observe a 40-day fasting period leading up to the holiday, emphasizing spiritual preparation and reflection.
In countries with significant Orthodox populations, such as Russia, Greece, Ethiopia, and Serbia, Christmas is a time for family gatherings, communal worship, and expressions of faith and gratitude. Orthodox Christians in the United States also honor these traditions, contributing to the nation’s rich tapestry of cultural and religious diversity.
Contributions to Society
President Biden highlighted the vital role Orthodox Christians play in fostering hope and healing. Through their commitment to social justice, humanitarian aid, and community building, Orthodox Christians exemplify the values of compassion and service.
In the United States, Orthodox Christian organizations and congregations engage in a wide range of activities, from supporting refugees and feeding the hungry to advocating for peace and justice. Internationally, their work often extends to areas affected by poverty, war, and natural disasters, offering relief and rebuilding efforts grounded in faith.
A Call for Peace and Justice
The Bidens concluded their message with a prayerful aspiration for peace and justice in the year ahead. This call resonates deeply amid ongoing global challenges, including conflicts, inequality, and environmental crises.
As the world faces these pressing issues, the president’s message reflects a shared hope for a future where all people—regardless of faith or background—can live in harmony, dignity, and security.
The Broader Implications
President Biden’s statement highlights the administration’s recognition of faith as a unifying force and a source of resilience. By extending greetings to Orthodox Christians during their sacred holiday, the Bidens reaffirm the United States’ commitment to diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect.
The message also underscores the interconnectedness of faith, policy, and diplomacy. In advocating for religious freedom and human dignity, the U.S. continues to position itself as a champion of universal values, fostering goodwill and collaboration with global faith communities.
Conclusion
As Orthodox Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden’s message serves as a poignant reminder of shared faith, resilience, and the enduring power of hope. Their words not only honor the spiritual significance of the holiday but also reaffirm a commitment to advocating for peace, justice, and the well-being of all people.
In a world marked by both challenges and opportunities, the Bidens’ call for unity and compassion resonates as a guiding principle for the year ahead. Their heartfelt message reflects the values that underpin the Orthodox Christmas celebration: faith, gratitude, and the transformative power of love in the face of adversity.
