CURRENT AFFAIRS

Detailed explanation-1: -In the war ravaged St. Elias Cathedral located on what was long the frontline in Aleppo’s historic Old City, priests prayed for peace at the first Christmas Eve Mass for five years, attended by dozens of worshippers, including some Russian officers. “The festive atmosphere is great.

Detailed explanation-2: -While only 10% of the Syrian population follows Christianity, most Syrian people celebrate Christmas and share greetings and good wishes with their neighbours and friends using the Arabic words Milad Majid for Merry Christmas.

Detailed explanation-3: -A Christmas tradition in Iraq, and sometimes also Syria, involves a bonfire of dried thorned branches. The fire is lit after children complete a recitation of the nativity story, which is read by candlelight from the Book of Psalms. The candles are then used to light the thorns.

Detailed explanation-4: -The celebration of Christmas started in Rome about 336, but it did not become a major Christian festival until the 9th century.

Detailed explanation-5: -Christmas in Syria is celebrated on December 6th and the churches of Syria hold special masses in honor of Saint Nicholas Thaumaturgus whose legend is similar to those of St. Nicholas and Santa Claus. As is the case with most countries in the world, the tradition of exchanging gifts also exists in Syria.