Dimitrievskaya Parental Saturday: what does violating the traditions of remembering the dead lead to?translated

On November 7, 2026, Orthodox believers celebrate Dimitrievskaya Parental Saturday - one of the main autumn days of remembrance of the dead. On this date, it is customary to visit churches, pray for deceased relatives and help those in need. At the same time, the church does not establish a ban on cleaning, washing, cooking and other household work.

Read: Pensions in Russia will rise sharply: who will receive an increase

Demetrius Saturday precedes the day of remembrance of the Great Martyr Demetrius of Thessaloniki, which the Orthodox Church celebrates on November 8. Traditionally, the origin of this memorial day is associated with the Battle of Kulikovo in 1380 and the commemoration of fallen Russian soldiers. Subsequently, the custom developed to remember all deceased Orthodox Christians on this Saturday.

Divine services begin the day before, on the evening of November 6, when a special funeral service is performed in churches - parastas. On the morning of November 7, believers can attend the Divine Liturgy and memorial service, submit notes with the names of the deceased and light candles. If it is impossible to visit church, you are allowed to pray for loved ones at home.

On Dimitrievskaya Saturday it is also customary to visit the graves of relatives and clean up burial sites. However…