For Orthodox Christians following the Julian calendar, the Dormition of the Mother of God Fast, also known as Saint Mary’s Fast, will start this Monday. The fast will end on August 28, when the Dormition feast is celebrated.

This is one of the big four fasts of the year. It is as strict as the Easter Lent. Wine and fish is permitted only on August 19, when the Transfiguration of Jesus is celebrated. “Because we are in August and there are many fresh vegetables and fruits, it is rather easy to fast”, says priest Eugen Onicov from the Saint Pantelimon Church in Chisinau.

On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, fasting Christians are not allowed to cook with oil, but are permitted to do so in the rest of the days. The priest notes that Christians should go to church more often in this period, to confess and receive the Eucharist, to pray more and meditate about the holy things. “We should praise God and serve him with our good deeds not only during the fast, but outside it as well”, says Onicov.

The Church allows children, pregnant women and sick persons to break the fast as long as it is about protecting their physical health. Christians should not party during this period.