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Orthodox Christians celebrate Candlemass

Photo: BGNES

Today, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church celebrates Candlemass. The Feast of the Presentation of Jesus Christ is one of the 12 great feasts of the year and one of the four dedicated to the Mother of God. The feast is based upon the account of the presentation of Jesus in Luke. Since ancient times, on the 40th day after birth children are brought to the temple of the Lord for blessing and mothers listen to a cleansing prayer.

According to folk traditions, February 2 is called Petlyovden and the holiday is related to the preservation of male strength.




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