Orthodox Christians celebrate Nativity of Mother of God

The Orthodox Christians celebrate on Friday, September 8, the Nativity of the Mother of God. This is the first great feast of the religious year, which started September 1, according to the Gregorian Calendar. Clergy say that this feast is also called the Little Saint Mary, to distinguish it from the Dormition of the Mother of God, celebrated on August 15 and called the Great Saint Mary. The Mother of Jesus was born in the town of Nazareth in Galilee, suggested to be a descent of King David. Mary means Lady, the Chosen One, the Mistress. The Nativity of the Mother of God is a common feast for the Orthodox, Roman Catholic and Greek Catholic Churches and is one of the year’s four feasts dedicated to Virgin Mary. Customs advise to bring fruits, bread and candles to the church on Little Saint Mary in order to bless them. Old people say this day usually the swallows take off, the summer ends and the fall begins.