Родительская суббота: What to Do and What to Avoid
What is Parent's Day?
In Eastern Orthodox Christianity, Parent's Day is a day to commemorate deceased parents and other ancestors. It is observed on the Saturday before Meatfare Sunday (the last Sunday preceding Lent).
In 2024, Parent's Day will be observed on November 2nd.
What to do on Parent's Day
There are many ways to commemorate Parent's Day, including:
- Visiting the graves of deceased parents and other ancestors
- Praying for the repose of their souls
- Attending a memorial service at a local church
- Giving alms to the poor in their memory
- Lighting a candle in their honor
- Sharing stories and memories about them with family and friends
What not to do on Parent's Day
There are also some things that should be avoided on Parent's Day, including:
- Working
- Hunting or fishing
- Attending weddings or other celebrations
- Drinking alcohol or eating meat (for Orthodox Christians)
- Arguing or fighting
The importance of Parent's Day
Parent's Day is an important day for Orthodox Christians to remember and honor their deceased parents and other ancestors. It is a day to pray for their souls, to give thanks for their lives, and to share stories and memories about them with family and friends.
By observing Parent's Day, Orthodox Christians can show their love and respect for their deceased loved ones and can help to keep their memory alive.