The Orthodox Christians on April 10 enter Great and Holy Week or Passion Week, which is the week immediately before Easter, considered the most important one. In the period, parishioners fast strictly. Those who can give up eating oil and can take communion for several times, IPN reports.
The Divine Liturgy is held in churches on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Monday of Holy Week commemorates the blessed and noble Joseph and the fig tree which was cursed and withered by the Lord. The withering of the fig tree was a miracle of special symbolism, since the tree had leaves, but no fruit.
Tuesday of Holy Week commemorates the parable of the Ten Virgins. On Wednesday of Holy Week, it has been ordained by the Holy Fathers of the Church that commemoration should be made of the anointing of Christ with myrrh by the woman in the house of Simon, the leper, in Bethany.
Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday, and Great and Holy Thursday, commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with the Apostles as well as the Washing of the Feet, which is a traditional component of the celebration performed either by a bishop, washing the feet of twelve priests, signifying piety. During the meal, Jesus predicted the events that would immediately follow, including his betrayal, the Denial of Peter, and his death and resurrection.
Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus and his subsequent death. Commemorations are often solemn and mournful. Some eat nothing on this day until sunset.
The last liturgical service is held on Holy Saturday and all parishioners take communion. Churches on this day put on holiday clothing. Easter Vigil starts at midnight and this moment is considered the start of the new Church Year.
