On November 9, Eastern Orthodox Christians will commemorate a special memorial Saturday, which falls just before the start of the Christmas fast. This day, known as Parent's Saturday, is dedicated to prayers for the repose of the souls of deceased relatives.
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SubscribeTraditionally, people visit the church during this time to honor the memory of their loved ones, pray, and light candles for their peace. Parent's Saturday is accompanied by specific customs and prohibitions that help create an atmosphere of silence and reverence necessary for prayers and reflections.
It is believed that on this day, loud feasts or the use of alcohol during memorial rituals are inappropriate. These rules aim to focus on inner peace and the memory of loved ones. Additionally, it is customary to avoid quarreling, arguing, gossiping, or wishing harm to others. When remembering the deceased, one should do so without resentment or negative emotions, only with kindness and prayer. Traditional belief also warns against refusing alms to those in need—helping the less fortunate is considered important on this day.
Memorial customs also extend to behavior at cemeteries. In particular, it is not customary to leave food at graves, as this contradicts the traditional understanding of proper respect for the deceased.
Usually, on the eve of Parent's Saturday, memorial services known as "parastas" (translated from Greek as "intercession" or "request") are held in churches. On the day of remembrance itself, a morning liturgy takes place, during which believers can submit notes for the repose of their relatives and request a forty-day memorial service. On this day, "panakhidky"—food, usually sweet dishes—are brought to the churches and later distributed to the needy as alms.
Within the family circle, a memorial meal is also organized at home, with kutia being the main dish. Kutia symbolizes resurrection and serves as an important element of the ritual, emphasizing the connection between the living and the dead.
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