Forgiven Sunday 2025: traditions, rituals, and spiritual cleansing before the Great Lent.
Today, March 2, Ukraine celebrates Forgiveness Sunday, marking the end of Maslenitsa week and the beginning of Lent, reports UNN.
Forgiveness Sunday is an important holiday in Christian tradition, observed on the eve of Lent. In 2025, it falls on March 2.
The history of this holiday dates back to ancient times. According to church tradition, the monks of the Palestinian monastery of Saint Savva would retreat to the desert for prayer and solitude before the start of Lent. As this journey was perilous and challenging, the monks would ask each other for forgiveness before departing, so they could leave with a pure heart. This tradition has been preserved in modern churches, where the Rite of Forgiveness takes place - a significant ritual of the day. Hence, it has become customary on this day to ask for forgiveness from loved ones.
The Rite of Forgiveness is a special practice on Forgiveness Sunday, during which the priest asks the faithful for forgiveness for all offenses, both intentional and unintentional. The faithful also seek forgiveness from one another. Following this, it is customary to exchange kisses or hugs as a sign of reconciliation.
This day provides an opportunity to reach out to family, friends, and colleagues to ask for forgiveness. Traditionally, people say "Forgive me" on this day.
In response, it is customary to say: "God will forgive, and I forgive."
Additionally, this is a time for inner cleansing and letting go of past grievances.
Main Traditions and Prohibitions on Forgiveness Sunday
Forgiveness and Cleansing: Avoid harboring grievances and negative thoughts. Do not quarrel or provoke conflicts.
- Forgiveness through Prayer: Orthodox Christians strive on this day to cleanse their hearts through prayer and spiritual purification, asking God to grant forgiveness for all sins committed.
- Spiritual Restoration: Help those in need and offer support to loved ones.
- Fasting and Health: It is not fashionable to overeat or indulge in alcohol. Moreover, noisy celebrations are not permitted.
- Purity of Heart: It is essential to let go of past grievances and cleanse your heart before the beginning of Lent.
- Welcoming Spring: Since Forgiveness Sunday concludes the Maslenitsa celebrations, this day also symbolizes bidding farewell to winter and welcoming spring.
Forgiveness Sunday is a day for cleansing and spiritual restoration, allowing one to begin Lent with a pure soul and to journey through it with blessings and inner peace.
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