Orthodox Christians celebrate Nativity of the Mother of God

Orthodox Christians that follow the old calendar celebrate on Friday, September 21, the Nativity of the Mother of God, a feast also knows In Moldova as the Little Saint Mary. This is one of the 12 Great Feasts, four of which are dedicated to the Mother of God. Priest Eugen Onicov of the St. Pantelimon Church in Chisinau has told Info-Prim Neo that this holiday marks the beginning of the church year. “The God-bearer was born of Iachim and Anna, who were old people, but through fasting and prayer received this baby from God. They promised to dedicate the child to the temple, should God give them a child. So, when Mary was 3 years old, they dedicated her to the temple in Jerusalem”, recalled the priest. On Friday, the Liturgy is officiates as on all holidays. The Great Feasts are marked with special chants. On this day, many communities, churches and families celebrate their patron saint’s day. Women named Maria celebrate their name day.