In many
Polish homes throughout the world, a most beloved family tradition is the
breaking of the oplatek on
Christmas Eve. The oplatek
(oplatki is the plural form) is a thin wafer similar in consistency
to a communion host that is often stamped with an elaborate Christmas
scene. Historically these would be distributed by religious to parishioners’
homes during the Advent season. This bread is not consecrated, but blessed by the
priest as a way to extend the fruits of the Mass into the home. It is meant to remind families of
the Eucharistic bread at Mass and makes a further connection between Christmas
and the gift of the Eucharist, the presence of God among us. On
Christmas Eve, the family eagerly gathers for a meal, as the table is
traditionally covered with straw and a white cloth. In some homes this is
reduced to a single plate, upon which rests the oplatek, as a symbol of Christ in the
manger. The father begins the ceremony by taking the oplatek and breaking a piece off of it,
giving it to his wife. When he does so, he may say what he is thankful for,
wish her good health, or ask for forgiveness. After
this initial sharing, the oplatek is then shared with each member of
the family in a similar manner, starting with the oldest down to the youngest.
It is a touching ceremony, one that can help heal hurts from the past year.
Sunday 19 December 2021
The Polish Oplatki
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