Addressing the festive ceremony organized in the Albanian church Jotari Jan.7, the head of the Albanian-Udi community, the priest of the church Jotari and community members spoke about the essence of Christmas and conditions created in Azerbaijan for performing religious rites.
The Udis said in Gabala there is no discrimination against them, regarding the overhaul of the Albanian church Jotari as a good example of tolerance in Azerbaijan.
There are reportedly three churches and two mosques in the Nij settlement with a population of 6,000. As many as 3,700 Udis are residing in the settlement. A total of 4,000 Udis are living in Azerbaijan, and 300 of them are registered in Oghuz and Baku.
The Udis living in the settlement managed to preserve their language, religion, tradition for 2,500 years. Udi language is taught at secondary schools in Nij, religious rites are performed in their native language at the church.
The Udis were banned from celebrating their national holidays during the Soviet period. As Azerbaijan gained its independence, they began to celebrate their holiday every year.
The church Jotari was re-opened after a major overhaul in 2002.
Nij settlement, where Muslims and Christians friendly co-exist, is regarded as a small model of tolerance.
Following the speeches, candles were lit, prayers were made and a holiday dinner was given.
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