Multifaith Calendar Highlights November 2013 (cont)
Holy Day
Description
Impact to Personnel
ASHURAH, a.k.a., ASHOORA [Islam] 13 Nov (Wed)
This two-day fast is linked with several Islamic observances.
Food restrictions (optional fast) - Muslims may request permission to reduce or be excused from physical training (including PT Assessments) or limit their time outdoors, duty permitting.
NATIVITY FAST [Orthodox Christians] 15 Nov – 24 Dec
This fast prepares the faithful for the feast of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Food restrictions
PRESENTATION OF VIRGIN MARY TO THE TEMPLE [Orthodox Christian] 21 Nov (Thu)
This feast recognizes the 40 day baby Virgin Mary being presented to God in the Jerusalem Temple.
Special worship - Orthodox Christians may seek permission to participate in the celebration.
THANKSGIVING [Civic] 28 Nov (Thu)
Annual American thanksgiving celebration, remembering the first American pilgrims, their hardships and celebrations.
Special celebration - Celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November.
HANUKKAH, a.k.a., FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS, FEAST OF DEDICATION [Jewish] 28 Nov – 5 Dec
It marks the recapture and rededication of the temple in Jerusalem, 165 B.C. by the Maccabees. Evening observances in synagogues include the lighting of the eight-candle menorah.
Special celebration - Although not obligatory, some Jews may seek permission to attend celebrations in the evening. Deployed members may require special arrangements to kindle their Hanukkah menorahs.
Multifaith Calendar Highlights December 2013 Holy Day
Description
Impact to Personnel
HANUKKAH, a.k.a., FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS, FEAST OF DEDICATION [Jewish] 28 Nov-5 Dec
It marks the recapture and rededication of the temple in Jerusalem, 165 B.C. by the Maccabees. Evening observances in synagogues include the lighting of the eight-candle menorah.
Special celebration - Although not obligatory, some Jews may seek permission to attend celebrations in the evening. Deployed members may require special arrangements to kindle their Hanukkah menorahs. The first light is lit on 27 Nov.
ROHATSU, a.k.a., BODDHI DAY; BUDDHA’S ENLIGHTENMENT [Zen Buddhism] 1-8 Dec
Zen Buddhists honor Buddha’s enlightenment with an arduous retreat typically lasting a week.
Work restrictions - Adherents may seek permission to be excused from non-mission essential functions on 1 Dec or the week following.
ADVENT [Christian] 1 – 24 Dec
The season of the preparation for the coming of Christ, also the beginning of the Christian liturgical year.
Special worship services
SAINT NICHOLAS [Catholic/Orthodox Christian] 6 Dec (Fri)
This feast honors Saint Nicholas.
Special worship – Orthodox/Catholic Christians may seek permission to participate in the celebration.
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION [Catholic Christian] 8 Dec (Sun)
Catholics are morally obliged to observe the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception.
Special service - Catholics may request time for participating in the celebration of the Eucharist and abstaining from unnecessary “servile” work.
YULE (Winter Solstice) [Wicca/ Druid] 21 Dec (Sat)
It marks the beginning of many Pagan calendars. In many Pagan traditions, the concept of rebirth is expressed through the birth of a Divine Child.
Special celebration - Wiccans and Druids (any Neo Pagans) on evening work shifts may request time off for High Day observances.
CHRISTMAS EVE & DAY [Christian] 24/25 Dec (Tue-Wed)
It marks the birth of Jesus Christ and the beginning of the feast of Christmas which lasts for 12 days, from the eve of Christmas Day to the eve of Epiphany.
Special worship and work restriction - Christians may seek permission to participate in the celebration of the Eucharist on Christmas Day.