Synaxis of the Mother of God

January 8, Wednesday

Synaxis of the Mother of God — an Orthodox holiday established in honor of the Most Holy Mother of God and the saints associated with the Nativity of Christ. This day is dedicated to venerating the Mother of God as intercessor and protector, as well as the saints involved in the story of the Nativity of Jesus Christ: Saint Joseph the Betrothed, King David, and Saint James, the Lord’s brother.

Date of celebration

* In churches using the Gregorian calendar (new style), such as the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, the holiday is celebrated on December 26.
* In churches following the Julian calendar (old style), such as the Serbian and Georgian Orthodox Churches, the holiday falls on January 8.

Who is honored

* The Most Holy Mother of God
* Saint Joseph the Betrothed, who took care of the infant Jesus
* King David, the ancestor of Christ
* Saint James, the Lord’s brother

Traditions and rituals

* Festive services are held in churches, including reading prayers and singing hymns.
* Believers bring candles and flowers, place them before icons, and pray for the health and well-being of their families.
* In some regions, processions with icons are held.
* In Bulgaria, this day is also considered Father’s Day, as Saint Joseph is honored as the protector and caretaker of the infant Jesus.
* The holiday strengthens family and community bonds, gathers families at the festive table, and creates a spiritual atmosphere.

Cultural and spiritual significance
Synaxis of the Mother of God is a day that unites believers in prayer and veneration of the saints, preserves the traditions of Orthodox worship and folk rites. It reminds people of the role of the Mother of God and the saints in the history of salvation, strengthens spiritual life, and maintains the connection of generations with church tradition.

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Synaxis of the Mother of God in other years

2021 January 8, Friday
2022 January 8, Saturday
2023 January 8, Sunday
2024 January 8, Monday
2026 January 8, Thursday

Synaxis of the Mother of God in other countries