Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Bulgaria (15/08)

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary – is one of the most revered Orthodox holidays in Bulgaria. It is dedicated to the remembrance of the death (assumption) of the Mother of God and is celebrated in the country annually on August 15.

There are many churches and monasteries in the country that are named after the Blessed Mother of God. They are well known to Bulgarians, who on this day come (sometimes from afar) to churches to pray, bring gifts and take part in this great holiday. Even the day before, women bake ritual bread, which the next morning goes to the temple and is consecrated there.

As a rule, the holiday is preceded by a two-week fast. Therefore, on the day of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, according to tradition, «kurban» – men cut lamb, fresh it and fry it on a spit. Some of the meat is cooked with rice, and soup (kurban chorba) is boiled from the giblets. These dishes are served to everyone who comes to the temple after the liturgy has been served.

The name «Maria» is very popular in Bulgaria. Traditionally, the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is perceived as a holiday for women mothers. Therefore, in those churches where it is believed that the Blessed Virgin helps childless women conceive a child, guests arrive the night before and stay overnight at the temple.

Icons of the Blessed Virgin Mary are also widely known in Bulgaria. For example, the icon of the Blessed Mother of God the Three Hands, which is located in the Trojan Monastery, has gained great popularity.

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