Beginning of the Dormition Fast
August 14 · Level 1 · #2025 of 2238
The Dormition Fast is a period of prayer and restraint leading up to the feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God. Churches following the Julian calendar begin it on 14 August in the civil calendar, preparing through reflection, compassion and simpler habits.
How it is celebrated: worshippers attend services, devote time to prayer and charitable acts, and abstain from animal products. Dietary observance is adapted to health and personal circumstances.
At just two weeks, it is the shortest of the four major Orthodox fasting periods, even though its traditional dietary rules are strict.