Let's Pray for the Departed: Notes for the Parastas and Commemoration on Dmitrievskaya Parents' Saturday Can Be Submitted Today
Commemorating the Departed on Dmitrievskaya Parents' Saturday
In the Orthodox tradition, Dmitrievskaya Parents' Saturday is a special day set aside to remember and pray for the departed. This year, it falls on November 5, 2022.
The tradition of commemorating the dead on this day dates back to the 14th century. According to legend, Grand Prince Dmitry Donskoy ordered a memorial service to be held for the soldiers who fell in the Battle of Kulikovo. Since then, it has become customary to pray for all the departed on this day.
How to Commemorate the Departed on Dmitrievskaya Parents' Saturday
There are several ways to commemorate the departed on Dmitrievskaya Parents' Saturday:
- Attend a memorial service at your local church.
- Submit notes with the names of the departed to be read during the service.
- Pray for the departed at home.
- Visit the graves of your loved ones and light a candle in their memory.
It is also customary to make donations to charity in memory of the departed.
The Significance of Praying for the Departed
Praying for the departed is an important part of Orthodox Christian tradition. It is believed that our prayers can help to alleviate the suffering of the departed and bring them closer to God.
When we pray for the departed, we are not only asking God to forgive their sins, but we are also asking for their intercession on our behalf. The saints and the departed are our spiritual brothers and sisters, and they can help us to grow closer to God and to live a more virtuous life.
Conclusion
Dmitrievskaya Parents' Saturday is a special day to remember and pray for the departed. By attending a memorial service, submitting notes with the names of the departed, or praying for them at home, we can help to alleviate their suffering and bring them closer to God.
Let us pray for the departed and ask for their intercession on our behalf.
