While politicians in America waste time and taxpayer dollars on votes concerning the importance of Christmas, and encouraging legal stand-offs over Nativity scenes, Lithuania reminds us that there doesn’t have to be a Yuletide standoff between different ideologies and belief systems.

“A sacred fire built to burn off misfortunes… songs to the goddess of fire… it doesn’t sound very Christian, but for Lithuanians the celebration of Advent – the season leading up to Christmas – is done in a way that harks back to ancient times, reflecting the county’s deeply rooted pagan traditions. Those in Vilnius on Dec. 16 will be able to witness this celebration first hand when the city will host an Advent evening, starting at 3 p.m., that will include songs, dancing and games that reflect nature and the passage of time … Christians and pagan traditions often coincide because they trace their feasts to the same calendar. “Christians couldn’t decide the exact day when Christ was born, so they decided to make it Dec. 25 and this is the same time when the pagans celebrate the sun rising earlier. In traditional Advent, it is a time to be calm and quiet for ancient pagans and Christians alike,” said Daiva Steponariciene, a Sedula folk dancer and singer.”

Lithuanian Pagan folk-group Kulgrinda.

Christian and Pagan folk singers and dancers (including famous Lithuanian Pagan-folk group Kulgrinda) will gather, sing, and dance together. Acknowledging their respective holy days, honoring their ancestors (both pagan and Christian), and celebrating together. A wonderful vision to hold as we approach our respective Winter festivals.

Tags: Christianity, Kulgrinda, Lithuania, Paganism, Romuva, War on Christmas