The expert named the main traditions of the Family Day of Love and fidelity

Religious scholar: traditions of the Day of Family, Love and Fidelity include prayer practice

Wed, 07/08/2026 - 05:00

Photo: IZVESTIA/Sergey Lantyukhov

Озвучить текст

Select important

Off

The traditions of the Day of Family, Love and Fidelity, which is celebrated on July 8, include family gatherings and modern forms of congratulations, while combining ecclesiastical and secular elements of celebration. This was reported by religious scholar Natalia Fominykh in a conversation with Izvestia.

According to the expert, many believers visit churches on this day, as the holiday coincides with the Orthodox memorial day of Peter and Fevronia of Murom, who are considered patrons of family and marriage.

"Believers turn to Saints Peter and Fevronia with various requests. First of all, it is a request to strengthen marriage, and for those who are not yet married, it is a prayer to find a mate or a betrothed. Families can also request the birth of a child," she said.

Peter and Fevronia Day – 2026: a love story that has passed through the ages

Why did the Murom saints become an example for many families

The symbolism of the daisy has a special meaning in the traditions, which, according to the religious scholar, represents the sun, where the yellow center symbolizes joy, and the white petals — purity, devotion and love. On this day, it is also customary to perform good deeds and help those in need, which is associated with the memory of the mercy of Saints Peter and Fevronia.

The religious scholar drew attention to the "paradox" existing in the tradition: getting engaged on July 8 is considered an auspicious sign promising a strong union, but weddings are not held in temples, since the holiday falls during the strict Peter's Fast. At the same time, modern couples often apply to the registry office on the Day of Family, Love and Fidelity.

Among the common customs are family feasts, congratulations to the anniversaries of married life and the presentation of commemorative awards, including honoring silver (25 years of marriage) and gold (50 years) weddings. Separately, the religious scholar mentioned modern greeting cards — "Fevronki", which have become a popular element of festive culture.