The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The Assumption of the Most Holy Mother of GodThe Assumption of the Most Holy Virgin Mary is one of the most revered Orthodox holidays in Bulgaria. There are many temples and monasteries in the country, which are named after the Most Holy Mother of God. They are well known to Bulgarians who come to the temples on this day (sometimes from afar) to pray, bring gifts and participate in this great holiday. Women on the eve of ceremonial bread, which in the morning belong to the temple and are 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" is performed - men cut a lamb, fresh it and roast it on a spit. Part of the meat is cooked with rice, and soup is brewed from the guts (Kurban chorba). These dishes are treated to all who come to the temple after the service of the liturgy.

The name Maria is very popular in Bulgaria. Almost every other woman here is called Maria. Traditionally, the Assumption of the Most Holy Mother of God is perceived as a holiday of mothers. Therefore, in those churches where it is believed that the Blessed Virgin helps childless women to conceive a child, guests come the night before and stay overnight at the temple.

Widely known in Bulgaria and some icons of the Blessed Virgin. So, for example, the icon of the Most Holy Our Lady of Troyeruchitsa, which is located in the Trojan Monastery, became very popular.