The Nativity Moleben is a special prayer service in the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGCC), celebrated during the Nativity Fast (St. Philip’s Fast) from November 15 to December 24. It is a paraliturgical service of intercession and thanksgiving, not a substitute for the Divine Liturgy, designed to help the faithful prepare spiritually for Christ’s birth.
The service typically includes:
Canon: Nine-ode hymns based on biblical canticles.
Psalmody and supplications.
Brief Gospel passages (optional).
A popular variant, the Emmanuel Moleben, emphasizes “God with us” and the fulfillment of prophecy.
The Nativity Moleben nurtures devotion, focuses hearts on the Incarnation, and complements the Nativity Fast, reflecting the shared Byzantine heritage of the UGCC and Orthodox Churches.
