Orthodox Meatfare Sunday: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Orthodox Meatfare Sunday (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Orthodox Meatfare Sunday is observed on February 19th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Orthodox Meatfare Sunday, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as important facts you may want to know about Orthodox Meatfare Sunday.

📅 What day is Orthodox Meatfare Sunday 2024?

In 2024, Orthodox Meatfare Sunday is on Sunday, February 19th. It is the 3rd Sunday in February; in 2024, it is Monday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the exciting details and facts about February 19, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

According to the Lenten Triodion, Orthodox Christians celebrate a special Sunday on the third Sunday of Lent, which falls on February 19 this year. This day marks the last opportunity for millions of Orthodox Christians worldwide to consume meat until Easter, also known as “Pascha.” Following this Sunday, there will be several weeks of prayer, fellowship, seeking forgiveness, and engaging in acts of service to others. Orthodox Christians believe that these practices help them draw closer to God. One of the key principles of this day is the idea of starting with a fresh and clear conscience, and maybe today is the day we achieve that.

📜 Orthodox Meatfare Sunday History

During this period, those who are devout follow several traditional rituals. One of these traditions is called the “cycle of the moveable feasts.” Sundays often signify the beginning of the next phase of the Paschal Cycle, and are celebrated with a special event centered around the assigned Gospel Reading for the day. Orthodox Meatloaf Sunday takes place three weeks before Great Lent, and it is customary for this to be the last day before Easter to consume meat.

On this particular day, also known as the Sunday of the Last Judgment, the Greek Orthodox Church focuses on the Gospel of Matthew. Despite its ominous tone, the story of the Last Judgment conveys a different message. It highlights that Jesus Christ will judge individuals based on their capacity to love, specifically, their care for others and their ability to demonstrate God’s love. On this Sunday, rather than emphasizing punishment, the atmosphere is one of repentance and the making of apologies. Cheesefare Sunday follows a week later, during which Orthodox Christians abstain from consuming dairy products until ‘Pascha.’ After this Sunday, the period of Great Lent officially begins.

✅ Orthodox Meatfare Sunday Facts

🔖 Decorating Easter eggs comes from Ukraine
The act of calling upon the deities associated with well-being and procreation is a customary practice in Ukraine.

🔖 Pretzels for Easter
During the 1950s in Germany, pretzels held significant importance during dinner as they symbolized folded arms in prayer.

🔖 The name has pagan origins
The Christian holiday has been given the name of “Eostre,” which was originally the name of an Anglo-Saxon goddess associated with fertility and illumination.

👍 Why Is Orthodox Meatfare Sunday Important

There is wisdom in keeping traditions alive. Tradition is synonymous with community and a connection to something bigger than ourselves.
If you ignore your sentiments and worry about the future, this is your chance to start over. The entire season of Lent is a chance to start over.
Giving up what we enjoy is character-building. It makes us appreciate the things we love more, whether it’s meat or anything else.

🙂 How To Observe Orthodox Meatfare Sunday

⚡ Begin again

⚡ Eat less meat
Reducing meat consumption has numerous health benefits and can significantly decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke. Regardless of whether one follows Lent or not, adopting this lifestyle choice is highly recommended.

⚡ Take time to reflect
Begin with a blank slate, in line with the Easter spirit. Make apologies to people you’ve lost touch with, or recommit to a cause that’s important to you.

📅 When is Orthodox Meatfare Sunday?

View all 🔗 February holidays, including 🔗 Religious and other 🔗 Christian holidays.

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