The Orthodox Christians who follow the old church calendar on June 12 go on the Apostles’ Fast, also called the Fast of the Holy Apostles and the Fast of Peter and Paul, who are considered the heads of the apostles and preachers. The fast lasts until the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul that is celebrated on July 12.

Priest Andrei Pargaru, of the Church “Great Saint Martyr Dumitru” of Chetrosu, Anenii Noi, has told IPN that the faithful should refrain from eating meat, milk products and eggs. However, this fasting period is not as strict as Lent. Fish can be eaten on Saturdays and Sundays.

The Church calls on the Christians to pray, repent and take the communion in the period. “The fast is killed not by people, but by passions. When the persons fast, it is easier for them to pray and they feel better and move easier. Fasting combined with prayer are two wings that take the people up, closer to heaven,” said the priest, calling upon the faithful to fast bodily and spiritually.

The Fast of the Holy Apostles always starts on the Monday after the Sunday of All Saints and lasts until July 12, when it is observed the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul. The length of the Apostles’ Fast is variable, being determined by the date of Easter. This year it lasts for 30 days.