1 January: Celebration of the Holy parent of God – Mandatory Festival for Catholics in Poland

1 January in Poland is not only the beginning of a fresh calendar year, but besides an crucial spiritual vacation for Catholics – Celebration of the Holy parent of God. This is 1 of the so-called. holidays orderedIn which the faithful are obliged to attend the Holy Mass.

The Importance of the Celebration of the Holy Parent of Mary

This celebration is 1 of the oldest Marian festivals in the Catholic Church, established in 431 at the Council of Ephesus. It highlights Mary's function as the parent of God (Theotokos) and her unique place in the past of salvation. On January 1, she closes the octave of Christmas and directs the attention of the faithful to Mary's motherhood and her participation in the mystery of Christ's incarnation.

Duty to attend Holy Mass

According to the Code of Canon Law, Catholics are obliged to attend Mass in Precepted holidays. This means that the faithful should participate in the Eucharist on 1 January. This work can besides be fulfilled by attending mass on the evening preceding, or 31 December.

List of Christmas Orders in Poland

In addition to the Celebration of the Holy parent of God, the holidays in Poland include:

• 6 January: Celebration of the Lord's Revelation (Three Kings),
• Sunday of the Resurrection (Easter night),
• The Ascension of the Lord,
• Celebration of the Blessed Body and Blood of Christ (God's Body),
• 15 August: Celebration of the presumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary,
• 1 November: celebration of all saints,
• 25 December: Celebration of the Birth of the Lord (Christmas).

During these days Catholics are obliged to attend the Holy Mass and refrain from unnecessary work.

Consequences of Non-Participation in Mass at the Feast of Commanded

Non-participation in the Holy Mass on the day ordered without crucial origin is considered a dense sin in the Catholic Church. Believers who for crucial reasons cannot participate in the Eucharist should participate in the liturgy of the Word, if it is celebrated in their parish, or devote adequate time to individual or household prayer.

Preparation for the Celebration

In many parishes in Poland, on 1 January peculiar Holy Masses are held, during which the faithful pray for God's blessing for the fresh year. It is besides an chance to reflect on the past year and make provisions for the future, asking for the care of Our Lady.

Traditions and Customs

In any regions of Poland, local traditions are associated with the Celebration of the Holy parent of God, specified as singing Christmas carols dedicated to Mary or organizing a procession. However, due to the fresh Year’s day, many people combine spiritual celebrations with fresh Year’s customs, specified as want making or having a household meal.

Liturgical Importance

The Liturgy of that day focuses on the mystery of God's motherhood of Mary. Mass reading emphasizes Mary’s function in the plan of salvation and her obedience to God’s will. Liturgical prayers include requests for her intercession and care of the Church and the full planet in the beginning of the year.