Orthodox Christians around the world will observe Universal Parent Saturday on February 22, 2025, marking one of the most significant days of the year to honor the memory of the deceased. Known as Meat-fare Saturday, this day holds deep religious and cultural importance as it occurs just before the start of Great Lent, which leads to Easter.
Universal Parent Saturday is celebrated during the waning moon phase and is framed around the themes of remembrance and prayer. Unlike regular memorial days, this observance encompasses all Christians who have passed on, providing believers with the opportunity to reflect on life and death.
On this day, the Orthodox community engages heavily with religious practices, which include attending church services, praying for the souls of the departed, and presenting notes with names of the deceased for prayer. According to MSK1.RU, "Even if a person has no relatives left, the church prays for them during the special service — the Parastas, which takes place on the eve of the Parent Saturday." These services serve as reminders of the connections between the living and the departed and the continued responsibility of the living to help their souls find peace.
Many families typically partake in memorial meals, sharing traditional dishes like kutya—symbolizing eternal life and rebirth—which is prepared using grains such as barley or rice mixed with honey, nuts, and dried fruits. This ritual reflects the hope for the departed's eternal life and the shared memories among family members.
Despite its mournful nature, Universal Parent Saturday also fosters community. Christians are encouraged to offer alms and perform good deeds, which, according to the teachings of their faith, benefit the souls of the deceased. "The primary purpose of this day is prayer, where believers can submit notes with the names of the deceased, light candles for their repose, and visit cemeteries to care for graves," stated vtomske.ru.
While the day is solemn, there are strict guidelines on how to conduct oneself. The church expressly advises against any festive celebrations or heavy work. Activities such as siring spirits, gossiping negatively about the deceased, or engaging excessively with alcohol at memorial gatherings are discouraged. The focus remains firmly on remembrance and prayer. RBC-Ukraine notes, "The church advises against pagan customs like leaving food or alcohol at graves, favoring instead a modest memorial meal at home, without excesses and alcohol."
The practice of remembering the dead through prayer during this period stems from ancient customs and religious teachings. Every year, there are multiple days set aside for the commemoration of various groups of deceased. Universal Parent Saturday is significant since it’s the first of several memorial days throughout the year, following the calendars of Orthodox Churches.
Following Universal Parent Saturday, the next significant memorial date will occur during the Great Lent, including specific remembrances on March 15, 22, and 29, and extending throughout the year on notable occasions like Radonitsa (April 29) and Dmitrievskaya Parent Saturday (November 1).
Though this day focuses strongly on somber rituals, it also serves as nourishment for the living. It reinforces community ties, provides opportunities to express love and gratitude, and encourages introspection about the values of compassion, connection, and spirituality. The act of recounting the stories of those who have passed strengthens the bonds among families and friends, allowing both the dearly departed and the living to remain intertwined.
These observances remind us of the importance of life and the legacy left behind. By honoring our deceased with prayer and thoughtful reflection, we not only cherish their memories but also take steps toward our own moral guidance and communal responsibility.