Forgiveness Sunday
March 2, Sunday
History and Meaning
Forgiveness Sunday is linked to the fact that, one day before the start of Great Lent, believers must cleanse their hearts and souls from anger and dissatisfaction, which is achieved through forgiveness. On this day, people ask each other for forgiveness to free themselves from negative emotions and begin Lent in peace and harmony. This day also marks the end of Maslenitsa week, a time of celebration and farewell to meat-based foods.
Traditions and Customs
- Forgiveness: The main tradition of Forgiveness Sunday is to ask for forgiveness from family members, friends, and acquaintances. People say to each other: "Forgive me if I have offended you" and usually receive the response, "May God forgive you." This helps to purify the soul and prepare for repentance.
- Participation in religious services: On this day, religious services are held in churches, where the faithful pray for the forgiveness of their sins and begin preparing for Great Lent. During the service, priests also call for reconciliation and forgiveness.
- Forgiving old grudges: On Forgiveness Sunday, people often forgive old grudges and misunderstandings that have lasted for a long time, in order to begin a new chapter in their lives with a pure heart.
Forgiveness Sunday in Different Countries
- In Russia and Ukraine, it is customary for large families to gather on this day, and forgiveness takes place between family members. Feasts are also organized, where dishes without meat are served, symbolizing the end of Maslenitsa week.
- In Belarus, Serbia, and other Eastern European countries, the tradition of forgiveness and reconciliation is also preserved, although the celebrations may vary.
Forgiveness Sunday is a day that symbolizes the importance of forgiveness, reconciliation, and spiritual purity before the start of Great Lent. It is a time to purify not only the body but also the soul, preparing for the challenges of Lent.
Forgiveness Sunday in other years
- 2022 March 6, Sunday
- 2023 February 26, Sunday
- 2024 February 18, Sunday
- 2026 March 1, Sunday