The Russian Orthodox Church called for the abandonment of the feast on February 23
On February 21, Archpriest Maxim Kozlov, head of the Educational Committee of the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC), gave recommendations to believers on how to properly celebrate Defender of the Fatherland Day, which this year coincides with the first day of Great Lent.
The clergyman stressed that on this day it is not necessary to arrange festive feasts or entertainment. The main goal is spiritual concentration. The consumption of alcohol and heavy food is contrary to the spirit of fasting.
"The first day of Great Lent, no matter what civil or personal holiday it falls on, is not suitable for personal festive events. Only protocol events are possible: awards, congratulations, laying wreaths," RIA Novosti quotes Kozlov as saying.
He also noted the importance of prayer for the defenders of the Fatherland and the memory of those who died while performing combat missions. If you want to gather with your loved ones, the archpriest advises you to do it the day before, on the last day of Maslenitsa — February 22.
On February 11, the Civic Chamber warned of fines for improperly burning an effigy of Maslenitsa. It was clarified that although there is no special fine for burning an effigy of Maslenitsa, there are penalties for violating fire safety rules. At the same time, a warning may be issued for the first violation. If, as a result of burning an effigy, a fire occurred or people were injured, fines for citizens will increase to 40-50 thousand rubles.
All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.
Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»
