Slaviq

An Expression of Native Alaskan Orthodoxy

Authors

• Nina Shultz Atla-Collectors and Connectors in Religion and Theology

DOI: https://doi.org/10.57050/jisocm.141927

Keywords:

Native Alaskans, Orthodox Christianity, Christmas, Starring

Abstract

Slaviq is an Orthodox Native Alaskan celebration beginning on the feast of the Nativity of Christ, marked by indigenous people throughout Alaska.  It is especially celebrated among the Yup’ik people in mainland southwestern Alaska in the Kuskokwim River delta region.  Slaviq or “starring” lasts from three to ten days involving processions by the congregation, and especially the choir, from the church to homes of villagers wishing to host the celebration.  At each host’s home a short prayer service is sung accompanied by the spinning of the Christmas star affixed to a pole held generally by young men.  This is followed by a short sermon delivered by the priest or even a reader, and then by the singing of Orthodox liturgical hymns in praise of the Nativity of Christ, Ukrainian koliady and folk songs from the Carpathian Mountains describing the feast day, and American Christmas carols.  This paraliturgical celebration is followed by the distribution of candy and gifts by the hosts to all the guests, and a festive meal for more senior members of the community who are present.  Traditionally, this meal consists of dried fish, often salmon, fermented foods, and moose and reindeer soup followed by akutaq, a dessert containing berries mixed with animal fat.  This study analyzes the historical and contemporary practice of celebrating Slaviq, viewing it as a cultural adaptation and expression of the indigenous Yup’ik ethical code enacted within an innovative Orthodox practice.