A Christmas tradition celebrated during Wigilia (Vigil) on Christmas Eve.
Opłatek
What are they?
The unleavened wafers are baked from pure wheat flour and water, are usually rectangular in shape and very thin; they are identical in composition to the altar bread used in the Catholic Church.
From a few days before Christmas, you can also buy opłatki on the street, this photo I took at the Metro station in the center.
Family
Before partaking of the Christmas Eve meal, the family gathers around the table. The eldest member holds a large wafer and breaks off a piece to begin the ritual. The remaining wafer is passed on to another member while a prayer for loved ones is said. This continues until everyone at the table has a piece of the wafer. Finally, the family members consume their share quietly.
History
The breaking of the Christmas wafer is a custom that began in Poland in the 10th century and is practiced by people of Polish ancestry around the world. It is considered the most ancient and beloved of Polish traditions.
Where?
In Poland and some parts of Central Europe, these Christmas wafers are dyed and used as ornaments. They are also sent as small trinkets with greeting cards to loved ones who are away from home.
Symbol
They are identical in composition to the altar bread that becomes the Eucharist at the consecration during Mass in Catholic Church. Being only a reminder of the Body of Christ used in private homes, Opłatki lack sanctification by a priest or bishop.
Opłatki also symbolize the unity of the family, the main pillar of society. They also symbolize forgiveness and reconciliation.
All in all a very nice family tradition, I participated for the first time a few days ago. Another Polish tradition under my belt!
It's too late to wish you a Merry Christmas, so let me wish you and your families a happy new year, in good health.
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