The Church Calendar
81 writings in The Church Calendar. Clear
The Church Calendar
What are the Wednesday and Friday fasts?
Orthodox Christians fast every Wednesday and Friday throughout most of the year. Wednesday commemorates Judas’ betrayal of Christ. Friday remembers His crucifixion. These aren’t occasional…
The Church Calendar
Why do Orthodox fast on Wednesdays and Fridays?
We fast on Wednesdays to remember the betrayal of Christ by Judas, and on Fridays to remember His crucifixion and death. It’s that simple, and…
The Church Calendar
What days are fast-free?
Fast-free days are specific periods when we don’t fast at all, not even on Wednesdays and Fridays. The Church gives us several weeks throughout the…
The Church Calendar
What is Bright Week fasting (or lack thereof)?
During Bright Week, you don’t fast at all. That’s it. No restrictions on meat, dairy, eggs, fish, or anything else. The Church forbids fasting during…
The Church Calendar
What is the week after Pentecost?
The week after Pentecost is called the Afterfeast of Pentecost. It’s a continuation of the feast itself, not a return to ordinary time. Think of…
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What is the Nativity through Theophany fast-free period?
From December 25 through January 4, the Church suspends the usual Wednesday and Friday fasts so we can celebrate the Incarnation without interruption. This is…
The Church Calendar
What is Cheesefare Week?
Cheesefare Week is the final week before Great Lent begins. It’s called “Cheesefare” because you’re saying goodbye to cheese and all dairy products, this is…
The Church Calendar
What is Meatfare Sunday?
Meatfare Sunday is the last day you’ll eat meat before Great Lent begins. It falls two Sundays before Lent starts, and after this Sunday the…
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How do I know what the fasting rules are each day?
Check your parish’s fasting calendar. Most Antiochian parishes provide one, and the Archdiocese publishes fasting guidance at antiochian.org. If you’re new to Orthodoxy, the fasting…
The Church Calendar
What if I have health issues and can’t fast?
The fast is adjusted for you. Fr. Michael guides how. The Orthodox Church teaches that fasting should never harm your body. If you’re sick, if…
The Church Calendar
How do I talk to my priest about fasting?
Just ask. That’s what he’s there for. Your priest expects these conversations. He wants them, actually. Fasting isn’t something the Church hands you as a…
The Church Calendar
What is the purpose of fasting?
Fasting heals us. That’s the simple answer. It’s medicine for the soul, and like any good medicine, it works on the body too. When you…
