Holidays That Change Dates
There are many Holy Days observed by people from many different cultural and religious heritages that do not fall on the same dates of the Julian calendar on an annual basis. This is because some religions, such as Judaism, follow the lunar cal- endar; and others, such as Islam, follow both the lunar and solar calendars. Given the increasing amount of cultural and religious diversity in this country, it is impera- tive that consideration be given to this fact. Religious leaders of a given faith com- munity must be contacted regarding the Julian dates of a given holiday. Cultural and religious holidays have a significant impact on the lives of both patients and workers. Surgical procedures and extensive tests ought to be avoided on holidays and large professional meetings and other activities must not be scheduled at that time to cause conflict.