Lighting the Badnjak at the Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul – Christmas Eve in Bela Crkva

Christmas Eve, known as Badnje Veče in the Serbian Orthodox tradition, is a night filled with deep symbolism, warmth, and spiritual meaning. In the town of Bela Crkva, one of the most touching moments of this holy evening is the lighting of the Badnjak in the courtyard of the Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul.
The Badnjak, usually an oak branch, represents the wood that the shepherds brought to warm the cave in Bethlehem where Christ was born. When it is lit, the fire becomes more than just flames—it becomes a living symbol of faith, unity, and hope. As sparks rise into the night sky, they remind us of prayers lifted to heaven and of light overcoming darkness.
People of all generations gather around the fire: children holding their parents’ hands, elders quietly watching, families and friends standing shoulder to shoulder. The cold winter air is softened by the warmth of the fire and the sense of togetherness. Church bells, prayers, and the crackling sound of burning wood create an atmosphere that words can hardly describe.
This video captures a moment that is both personal and communal. It is not only about a tradition preserved through centuries, but about a living faith that continues to bring people together. In a world that often feels rushed and divided, the lighting of the Badnjak reminds us to pause, to be present, and to remember what truly matters: peace, humility, and love.
The Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul in Bela Crkva becomes, on this night, a place where heaven and earth feel closer. The fire illuminates faces, but also hearts. It invites us to carry this light into our homes and into the days ahead.
May this recording serve as a small window into the beauty of Serbian Orthodox tradition and as a reminder that even the simplest rituals can carry profound meaning when they are rooted in faith and shared with others.

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