Ontario Premier Doug Ford issued a formal statement Tuesday recognizing Orthodox Christmas, underscoring the province’s cultural diversity and the contributions of Orthodox Christian communities to Ontario’s social and economic life.
The message, released January 7 by the Premier’s Office, comes as Orthodox Christians across Ontario and around the world mark Christmas according to the Julian calendar. The observance, which falls later than Christmas celebrations in Western Christian traditions, is a significant religious and cultural event for millions of people.
“today, many people across Ontario are coming together to celebrate Orthodox Christmas. This festive occasion honours the birth of Jesus Christ and offers a chance for worshippers and families to celebrate their faith and cherished customs that have been passed down through generations,” Ford said in the statement.
Ontario is home to sizable Orthodox Christian populations, including communities with roots in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa and parts of Asia. These communities are concentrated in major urban centres such as Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton and Windsor, while also forming part of the social fabric of smaller cities and towns across the province.
In his message, the premier emphasized the broader role Orthodox Christian communities play beyond religious observance, noting their contributions to civic life, volunteerism and community leadership.
“Ontario’s diverse Orthodox Christian communities strengthen our province through their continued cultural, spiritual and community leadership,” Ford said. “Orthodox Christmas celebrates the shared values of hope, compassion and togetherness that can help build a better Ontario for all of us.”
The statement reflects a recurring theme in the Ford government’s public communications: recognition of Ontario’s multicultural and multifaith identity as a cornerstone of social cohesion. While the province does not designate Orthodox Christmas as a statutory holiday, provincial leaders routinely issue messages acknowledging major religious observances celebrated by Ontarians.
Business and community leaders say such acknowledgements carry symbolic importance, particularly in a province where immigration continues to play a central role in labour force growth and economic development. Many Orthodox Christian Ontarians are active in small business ownership, skilled trades, health care, construction and professional services, sectors that are critical to Ontario’s economy.
Faith-based organizations affiliated with Orthodox churches also operate charities, food programs and settlement services that support newcomers and vulnerable populations. These activities, while rooted in religious tradition, often intersect with broader policy goals related to social services, housing stability and community well-being.
Ford’s message also highlighted the family-centred nature of the holiday, which typically includes church services, communal meals and long-standing traditions passed down through generations. In many Orthodox households, Christmas is preceded by a period of fasting and culminates in extended gatherings that reinforce family and community ties.
“To everyone observing today, may your Christmas be filled with joy, renewal and meaningful moments with loved ones,” Ford said. “Merry Christmas!”
The premier’s statement did not outline specific policy initiatives related to faith communities, but it aligns with the government’s broader emphasis on inclusion and respect for cultural traditions. In recent years, Ontario has expanded consultations with community groups on issues ranging from public health messaging to workforce participation, recognizing that trusted community institutions often play a key role in reaching diverse populations.
As Orthodox Christians across the province mark the holiday, churches are holding liturgical services and community events that reflect both ancient traditions and the modern, multicultural context of Ontario. For many families, the day serves as both a religious observance and a moment to reflect on shared values amid ongoing economic and social challenges.
By formally recognizing Orthodox Christmas, the Ford government adds its voice to a tradition of provincial leaders acknowledging the religious diversity that shapes Ontario’s identity, reinforcing a message of unity and shared purpose as the province enters a new year.
