On August 14, Christian Orthodox believers who follow the Julian calendar will begin the Fast of the Dormition of the Mother of God, also colloquially known as the Fast of Saint Mary. Fr. Octavian Mosan, parson of the “Meeting of the Lord” Church, told IPN that the Fast of Saint Mary is relatively short, but as rigorous as the Great Paschal Lent.

“Every year, the Fast of Saint Mary begins on a fixed date and lasts two weeks, from August 14 to 28, anticipating the feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God, known by the folk as the Greater Saint Mary. The Mother of God is the most honored of the humans, more so than heavenly powers like the Seraphs and the Cherubs. Jesus Christ came to earth through Virgin Mary”, said the priest.

Four Great Feasts are dedicated to the Mother of God. The most important one marks her passing away. “The Mother of God was taken by the Messiah into the heavens and is our mediator, always praying for us”, added the parson.

The Fast of Saint Mary is strict and fish, vegetable oil and wine are allowed only on August 19, when the Transfiguration of Jesus is celebrated, regardless of day of the week. Otherwise, the believers are allowed to cook with oil only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. In fasting days, only dried boiled food is allowed.