Ukrainian Greek Catholic Calendar 2024
As a Ukrainian Greek Catholic, I look forward to the annual release of our calendar, which not only marks important dates but also informs us of the various festivals and celebrations we will be a part of. With the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Calendar 2024 now available, I can’t wait to share with you all the exciting events that we will be celebrating in the coming year.
Important Dates
Before diving into the festivals and celebrations, let’s take a look at some of the important dates that are marked on the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Calendar 2024:
- January 7: Christmas
- February 26: Ash Wednesday
- April 21: Easter Sunday
- May 30: Ascension of the Lord
- June 9: Pentecost
- August 15: Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
- November 1: All Saints’ Day
- December 25: Christmas
Festivals and Celebrations
Now, let’s get into the fun part – the festivals and celebrations that we will be a part of in 2024:
Ukrainian Easter
Easter is the most important festival in the Ukrainian Greek Catholic calendar. It is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox. In 2024, Easter Sunday falls on April 21.
The celebrations begin on Holy Thursday, with the washing of the feet and the reading of the 12 Gospels. Good Friday is a day of fasting and mourning, and the Holy Saturday vigil is one of the most beautiful services of the year. On Easter Sunday, the church is decorated with flowers and candles, and the service is filled with joy and celebration.
St. George’s Day
St. George is the patron saint of Ukraine, and his feast day is celebrated on April 23. This day is marked by processions, feasts, and the blessing of fields and crops. It is a day to celebrate the strength and resilience of the Ukrainian people.
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
On August 15, we celebrate the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This day is marked by a special liturgy, processions, and the blessing of herbs and flowers. It is a day to honor the mother of Jesus and to ask for her intercession.
Feast of the Transfiguration
The Feast of the Transfiguration is celebrated on August 19. This day marks the transfiguration of Jesus on the mountain, where he was revealed in his divine glory. It is a day to celebrate the power and majesty of God.
Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
On September 8, we celebrate the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This day marks the birth of Mary, the mother of Jesus. It is a day to honor her and to ask for her intercession.
Question and Answer
What is the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church?
The Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church is a Byzantine Rite Eastern Catholic Church that is in full communion with the Holy See. It was formed in the 16th century when Ukrainian Orthodox Christians reunited with the Catholic Church.
What is the significance of the Ukrainian Easter?
The Ukrainian Easter is a time to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus and the victory of life over death. It is also a time to celebrate the renewal of nature and the coming of spring.
What is the blessing of herbs and flowers?
The blessing of herbs and flowers is a traditional Ukrainian custom that takes place on the Feast of the Assumption. It is a way to honor the natural world and to ask for God’s blessing on the crops and fields.
FAQs
When does the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Calendar 2024 start?
The Ukrainian Greek Catholic Calendar 2024 starts on January 1, 2024.
Where can I get a copy of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Calendar 2024?
You can get a copy of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Calendar 2024 from your local Ukrainian Catholic Church or online.
Are the festivals and celebrations on the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Calendar 2024 only for Ukrainians?
No, the festivals and celebrations on the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Calendar 2024 are for anyone who wants to participate in them. They are a celebration of the Ukrainian Catholic faith and culture, but everyone is welcome to join in the festivities.
So there you have it – a guide to the festivals and celebrations on the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Calendar 2024. I hope this has given you a glimpse into the rich and vibrant traditions of the Ukrainian Catholic Church. Happy celebrating!