Old-style Orthodox Christians entered on Friday the Fast of the Dormition of the Mother of God, also called the Fast of Saint Mary, which lasts two weeks, until August 28. During this period, believers are encouraged to devote more time to prayer and to abstain from parties, reports IPN.
On the first day of fasting, the Holy Liturgy is officiated in churches, and the faithful sanctify water and flowers. According to tradition, the sanctified water is consumed in the morning, after prayer and on an empty stomach, while the flowers are dried and kept in homes.
The Fast of the Dormition of the Mother of God is one of the four major fasts of the year and has stricter rules: on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, believers fast until around 3:00 PM, after which they only consume dry food. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, boiled vegetables are consumed, without oil, and on Saturdays and Sundays, oil and wine are permitted.
The only day when fish is permitted is August 19, when the Transfiguration of the Lord is celebrated. On this day, the grapes and the new wine are also blessed.
At the same time, the church lifts the fast for children, pregnant women, and the sick. Also, during the fasting period, weddings and parties are not held.
