Today, Maria and Maria are celebrated
Today is the great Christian holiday Dormitionalso called Great Mother of God. It is one of the 12 most important days in our religion. Dormancy means falling asleep, sleep. On this day, the Virgin Mary happily left the earthly life at the age of 64.
The Mother of God was foretold three days before her death by the Archangel Gabriel. He appeared to her during her fervent prayers for release from the body. As a sign, the archangel gave the Mother of God a heavenly branch that radiated heavenly light, ordering it to be carried at her funeral.
Not only was the day indicated, but also the hour when Mary’s soul would depart from her body to be met by her son—the third hour of the day. Many candles were burning in the room of the Mother of God, and the apostles were around. Suddenly there was a bright light. Christ himself had descended, surrounded by angels, archangels and other disembodied powers. He approached his mother, comforted her with tender words and kindly urged her to pass from earth to heaven. She joyfully replied, “My heart is ready; let it be to me according to Your words”, the church writings tell.
Apostles buried Mary in a cave in Gethsemane, and covered the entrance with a large stone. They did not leave the place of burial for three days.
Three days later, Saint Thomas arrived late for the pilgrimage. When they removed the stone from the tomb, the apostles saw that only the shroud of the Mother of God remained.
On the Great Mother of God, after a solemn liturgy in the church, ritual breads are consecrated, which women distribute for health and for deceased loved ones. In some churches, people let doves fly up. Believers seek the patronage of the Holy Mother of God for their life problems, they rely on her in joy and sorrow.
On this day, family meetings are held, sacrifices are prepared for life, health, fertility, protection from misfortunes and diseases.
Traditional dishes on the table are fresh bread decorated with ornaments, chicken, boiled wheat, corn and pumpkin. Watermelon and grapes are the dessert.
Believers donate to the church candles, home-woven cloth, missal, cloth and money.
Today is the great holiday of the Bachkovo Monastery. Thousands of believers have traditionally gathered there since the previous day to pray before the miraculous icon of the Mother of God for health, well-being, love and wisdom.
On this day, everyone who bears the name Maria, as well as Marijana and Mariana, celebrate.
May they be alive and healthy and full of love!
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