This custom emphasizes and strengthens the close ties among family members in love and responsibility. Two days before Christmas a young pig is usually prepared for barbecue the next day, one that will serve as the main dish for the Christmas meal. On the day before Christmas a Yule log is secured and the pecenica is cooked. The family gathers for a meal at Christmas Eve, which of course is Lenten. The meal is preceded by a prayer led by the father.
Straw is spread around and gifts are exchanged.
Early on Christmas Day, while most of the family members attend Church services, Mother stays home to prepare the meal. One of her many tasks that day is to prepare the Cesnica, a special Christmas bread in which a coin is placed. Whoever finds the coin in his piece of Cesnica will have good fortune all through the coming year. The Christmas meal is the most festive meal of the year and usually the richest one. Since this is a joyous and exciting moment Father must call everyone to attention.