Society

22 September, 2026 / 16:24

/ 1 day ago

Old-Style Orthodox Christians celebrate Nativity of Mother of God

The old-Style Orthodox Christians today are celebrating the Nativity of Mother of God, popularly known as Little Saint Mary. On this occasion, religious services are held in places of worship across the country, while more localities are celebrating their patronal feast.

The Nativity of the Most Holy Mother of God and Ever-Virgin Mary is an important holiday of the Church and, in Orthodox Christianity, is one of the twelve great feasts. This day commemorates the birth of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ.

The Virgin Mary was born to the righteous Joachim and Anna. Although advanced in age, her parents prayed fervently for a child. Church Fathers consider the Nativity of Mother of God to be the historical moment when the salvation of humankind from the bondage of original sin began. Through the purity of her life, wholly devoted to God, the Holy Virgin became worthy to be the one from whom the Son of God would be born.

According to tradition, on this day people make pilgrimages to monasteries and bring fruit, bread and candles to church to be blessed. Women pray to have children, while those who want to marry pray to find a partner.

In popular belief, the feast of the Nativity of Mother of God marks the astronomical boundary between summer and autumn, the time when autumn agricultural work begins and the new season starts to take hold.

According to data by the Public Services Agency (ASP), Maria is among the most common female first names in Moldova. It is borne by approximately 114,000 women, who are celebrating their name day today.

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