The Polish family breaks the Oplatek (Wafer) (Oh-pwah-tek) on Christmas Eve (Wigilia) as their ancestors before them have done.

• Text for a Wigilia Supper Ceremony
  
• Sharing the Oplatek: Traditional Wishes, Photos of Parent & Child

The sacred white wafers, much like those used for Holy Communion, are shared with each person present. During the exchange, good wishes are expressed. This is the most emotional time of the holiday for the Polish family.  Those who are no longer alive are particularly remembered at this moment.  The pink wafer is shared with the animals who, according to Polish tradition, because they were first to greet the Baby Jesus speak at midnight. This is the most sacred night in the Polish-Polonian Home.

External Links:

• Read more about Oplatek Tradition
• Obtain Oplatki from Polish Art Center
• Online Oplatki source

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