Orthodox Christians on March 4 enter the White Week, which is the week preceding Lent. Meat in this period is not allowed, IPN reports.

Contacted by IPN, priest Eugen Onikov, of the Chisinau Church “Saint Pantelimon”, said the faithful should start fasting gradually. On March 3, they could eat meat and fish, but this week, until March 11, they should eat only milk products, cheese and eggs.

Great Lent is the longest and strictest fasting season of the year. Next week, which will be the first fasting week, is the week of special repentance, as the last fasting week of Lent is. Throughout Lent, specific services will be held in churches, including Matins, the Hours and the Canon of Saint Andrew of Crete. On Wednesday, they hold the liturgy of earlier blessed gifts and, for the first time during Lent, the faithful can take communion. The same liturgy is held on Friday.

No wedding, christening and house blessing ceremonies are held during Lent. Fish can be eaten on the Feast of the Annunciation that is observed on April 7 and on Palm Sunday that is marked on April 21. Easter this year is celebrated on April 28.