On March 29, 2025, Orthodox Christians across the Yekaterinburg diocese will observe a significant day known as Parental Saturday, marking a time dedicated to the remembrance of deceased loved ones. This observance, part of the Great Lent tradition, not only serves as a solemn occasion for prayer and reflection but also emphasizes the importance of honoring the memory of those who have passed away. Parental Saturday is a unique opportunity for believers to connect spiritually with their ancestors and community members who have departed this life.
The name "Parental Saturday" derives from the ancient practice of referring to the deceased as "parents," which encompasses all ancestors, not just biological parents. This day is particularly poignant as it allows individuals to remember and pray for those who might otherwise be forgotten. It is a time for collective mourning and spiritual unity among the faithful, reinforcing the significance of remembering the eternal nature of life.
On this day, memorial services will be held in all churches, where priests will accept names of the deceased for commemoration. Believers are encouraged to attend these services, which begin with a special memorial liturgy known as a panikhida, where prayers for the souls of the departed are offered. This year, the fourth Saturday of Great Lent, March 29, serves as the last specifically designated day for such remembrances during this period of fasting and reflection.
In addition to church services, many Orthodox Christians will visit cemeteries to honor their deceased relatives. This tradition includes cleaning graves, laying flowers, and lighting candles as acts of love and remembrance. It is customary to tidy up the gravesites, especially after the winter months, to show respect and care for those who have passed on.
During the Great Lent, Christians engage in self-reflection and acts of charity, striving to cleanse their souls and seek forgiveness. From March 3 to April 19, believers are encouraged to pray, perform good deeds, and, importantly, remember their loved ones who have died. Parental Saturday falls within this reflective period, making it a spiritually significant occasion.
In 2025, there are two designated Parental Saturdays during Great Lent, with the first one occurring on February 22, known as Myasopustnaya. This specific Saturday is traditionally celebrated just before the start of Maslenitsa week, a time of festivity and preparation for Lent. The upcoming Parental Saturday on March 29 is the second and final opportunity for this type of remembrance until after Easter, with the next memorial day being Radonitsa.
As believers prepare for Parental Saturday, there are specific customs and prohibitions to observe. It is essential to refrain from indulgent celebrations, noisy gatherings, and excessive eating, as the day is meant for solemnity and prayer. Engaging in arguments, swearing, or recalling the sins of the deceased is also discouraged, as the focus should remain on honoring their memory peacefully.
Moreover, the Orthodox Church advises against certain practices, such as leaving food on graves or consuming alcohol at cemeteries. Instead, the emphasis is on sincere prayer and charitable acts, reflecting a deeper respect for the departed. It is believed that donating to charity or providing alms to those in need is a more meaningful way to honor the deceased than following pagan rituals.
As Parental Saturday approaches, parishioners are reminded of the importance of attending church services, where they can order memorial prayers for their loved ones. These prayers, known as sorokoust, can be requested in advance, ensuring that the priest includes the names of the deceased during the altar service. It is a time for communal support and spiritual intercession, as the faithful unite in their prayers for those who have crossed over.
In the Yekaterinburg diocese, churches will hold special memorial services on the evening of March 29, followed by the Divine Liturgy and panikhida on Saturday morning. This structured observance allows the community to come together in remembrance and prayer, reinforcing the bonds of faith and shared grief.
In summary, Parental Saturday on March 29, 2025, serves as a vital day for Orthodox Christians to honor and remember their deceased relatives and friends. By participating in church services, visiting cemeteries, and engaging in acts of charity, believers can fulfill the spiritual obligations of this solemn occasion. As they gather in remembrance, they not only honor the memories of their loved ones but also reflect on the eternal nature of life and the hope of resurrection.
