Dormition of the Holy Virgin in Greece ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Dormition of the Holy Virgin in Greece and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
The Dormition of the Theotokos is one of the twelve Great Feasts of the Orthodox Church, celebrated on August 15. The Feast commemorates the “falling asleep” or death of the Virgin Mary. It is believed that Mary died a natural death, but that her body was assumed into heaven by Christ. The Feast is also considered to be a major Marian feast, second only to the Feast of the Annunciation.
In Greece, the Feast of the Dormition is known as the “Feast of the Assumption” and is one of the most important holidays of the year. The day begins with a morning service at the church, followed by a procession of the icon of the Virgin Mary through the streets. Many Greeks will also take the day off from work and spend time with family and friends.
On the night of the 14th, there is a special service called the “Office of Supplication” which includes the reading of the Akathist Hymn. This service is meant to prepare the faithful for the Feast of the Dormition, which begins the following morning.
The 15th is a day of fasting, and the Feast itself begins with the Divine Liturgy. After the Liturgy, there is a procession of the icon of the Virgin Mary around the church. The day ends with a special service called the “Great Paraklesis” which includes the reading of the Canon of the Dormition.