March 2 — Forgiven Sunday: when will it be, from whom to ask for forgiveness

On the last day before Lent, believers celebrate Forgiveness Sunday. It coincides with the final day of Maslenitsa and in 2025 falls on March 2. Izvestia explains the significance of this day and how it is customary to spend it.

What is the date of Forgiveness Sunday in 2025

The date changes every year, but it always remains the last day before Lent, which, in turn, depends on Easter. Forgiven Sunday falls on dates no earlier than mid-February and no later than mid-March. In 2025, it's March 2nd.

The essence of the Orthodox holiday

There is no such holiday in the official Orthodox calendar — it originated among the people due to traditions preceding Lent. So, in Christianity it is believed that it is impossible to purify the soul if you conceal resentments. Therefore, before fasting, it is necessary to forgive others for their misdeeds and admit guilt to others.

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It is noteworthy that in Christianity it is customary to ask for forgiveness not only on this day: it does not hurt to apologize for bad deeds at any other time, because Christianity prescribes forgiveness and repentance.

Traditions for Forgiveness Sunday in 2025

Forgiveness Sunday coincides with the last day of Maslenitsa, so many traditions of this day came from paganism. So, on the last day of Shrovetide week, winter holidays are held, accompanied by the burning of an effigy.

In the Russian Orthodox Church, a special rite of forgiveness is performed in the evening, when clergy and parishioners ask each other for forgiveness. In addition, forgiveness for wrongdoing should be asked from loved ones, and in response to apologies, it is customary to say "God will forgive, and I forgive." At the same time, it is not necessary to name what you are apologizing for — the interlocutor will understand what you are talking about anyway.

This is the Sunday before Lent, which means that believers are allowed to eat dairy products, eggs and fish. Meat should be discarded even earlier — before the onset of Carnival. Those treats that will not be eaten on Sunday are usually distributed to the poor or neighbors, and throwing food away is considered a bad omen.

Earlier, Izvestia told about the traditions and signs of the sixth day of Maslenitsa — Sister-in-law's gatherings.