Saturday of Souls, November 2, Dmitrievskaya Saturday

What is Saturday of Souls?

Saturday of Souls, also known as Dmitrievskaya Saturday, is a day of commemoration for the dead in the Eastern Orthodox Church. It is observed on the Saturday before the Feast of Saint Demetrius of Thessaloniki, which falls on November 8th.

On this day, Orthodox Christians remember their departed loved ones and pray for their souls. They visit cemeteries, light candles, and offer prayers for the repose of the souls of the dead.

History of Saturday of Souls

The origins of Saturday of Souls can be traced back to the early days of Christianity. In the 4th century, Saint Ambrose of Milan instituted a day of prayer for the dead on the Saturday before the Feast of Saint Demetrius. This practice was later adopted by the Eastern Orthodox Church.

The name "Dmitrievskaya Saturday" comes from Saint Demetrius of Thessaloniki, who is considered to be the patron saint of the dead. According to legend, Saint Demetrius appeared to a monk in a dream and asked him to establish a day of prayer for the dead. The monk then reported this vision to the Patriarch of Constantinople, who instituted the observance of Saturday of Souls.

Traditions of Saturday of Souls

On Saturday of Souls, Orthodox Christians typically visit cemeteries to pray for their departed loved ones. They light candles, sing hymns, and offer prayers for the repose of the souls of the dead.

In some communities, it is also customary to prepare special foods for Saturday of Souls. These foods are often shared with family and friends as a way of remembering the dead.

Significance of Saturday of Souls

Saturday of Souls is a day of great significance for Orthodox Christians. It is a time to remember their departed loved ones and to pray for their souls. It is also a time to reflect on the meaning of death and the hope of resurrection.

For Orthodox Christians, Saturday of Souls is a reminder that death is not the end. It is a time to celebrate the lives of their departed loved ones and to look forward to the day when they will be reunited in the Kingdom of God.