In Poland, Christmas Eve has been celebrated every year since the 18th century Empty seat for an unexpected guest The well-known and widespread custom in Poland. This place was intended primarily for a lonely wanderer. Leaving a space at the table signifies the memory of our loved ones who can not spend the holidays with us. Starting supper after the appearance of the first star Christmas Eve begins as soon as the first star appears in the sky. This is done probably in remembrance of the star of Bethlehem, which according to the Evangelist, St. Matthew saw the Magi, also known as the Three Kings.

Breaking of the wafer the most important and the climax of Christmas Eve in Poland is the habit of breaking of the wafer. This tradition comes from the ancient custom called eulogia that survived the first centuries of Christianity. Christmas Eve refers to the feasts of the early Christians, organized to commemorate the Last Supper. This custom also means mutual dedication to one another and to learn to share even the last piece of bread. We give a wish for prosperity and forgive sins.

Midnight Mass - Christmas Eve Mass is celebrated in the churches at midnight. According to the tradition, it commemorates the arrival of the The Three Wise Men to Bethlehem and paying the respect to the newborn Messiah. The habit of exercising the Christmas liturgy night was introduced in the Church in the second half of the 5th century.

Christmas carols singing - An integral part of Christmas Eve in Poland. The songs tell of the birth of Jesus Christ. The oldest date back to the Middle Ages.

Nativity Plays are put in our school before the Christimas break begins.

Easter, the most important and oldest Christian tradition, celebrated to commemorate the resurrection of Christ. The celebration of a religious Easter starts in the early morning with the procession and Mass in the Catholic Church called the Resurrection.

Easter eggs - Painting Easter eggs is probably the most popular Easter tradition. We decorate and colour eggshells. The Easter lamb - Lamb as gifts to the Lord appeared in the Old Testament. But the figure which carries the basket to the church is the "Agnus Dei”, the Lamb of God, which is a symbol of the martyrdom of Jesus Christ on the cross.

Blessing of the Easter Basket - Baskets containing a variety of Easter foods are brought to church to be blessed on Holy Saturday Easter bunny - Easter fun – On Easter Monday, children walk around the house and look for hidden gifts which they believe are brought and hidden by Easter Bunny.

Thank you for your attention! Jeżewo School, Poland February 2016