07-01-2026, Brussels

Traditional greetings to Archbishop Simon of Brussels and Belgium.

On Christmas Day, the clergy and flock of the Belgian diocese traditionally gather at the Diocesan Administration to congratulate their ruling archbishop on the great feast of the Nativity. Rectors, clergy, deacons, singers, and parishioners from various churches in the diocese come from all cities to glorify the birth of the Divine Infant and share this joy with Archbishop Simon in fraternal fellowship. First, the troparion and kontakion are sung in St. Nicholas Cathedral, after which the youth choir sings Christmas carols. These are sung in various languages. Then, on behalf of all those gathered, the diocesan secretary delivers a congratulatory speech to the archbishop, concluding with a long life for the ruling archbishop.

After the formal part, Archbishop Simon invites everyone gathered to the second floor, where tables have already been set, and where the celebration continues in a warm and cordial atmosphere. The clergy share news from their parishes, discuss the past year, and make plans for the coming year. Many years to Archbishop Simon are also proclaimed, and congratulations are offered.