Orthodox Christmas Eve service takes place in Moscow's Cathedral of Christ the Saviour
Orthodox Christmas Eve service takes place in Moscow's Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Head of the Russian Orthodox Church Patriarch Kirill leads the traditional Orthodox Christmas Eve mass at Moscow’s Cathedral of Christ the Saviour on Monday, January 6.

Believers gather in the Russian capital's main cathedral for the service, which follows a 40-day fast.

The Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar, with the Nativity - or Christmas Day - celebrated on January 7.