Petrov's fast in 2025: when does it start and end, how long does it last

On June 16, 2025, the Orthodox begin the Peter (Apostolic) fast. It will last until July 11 and will end with the celebration of Peter and Paul Day. About the history and traditions of this post, as well as what can be done, in the material of Izvestia.

Petrov post 2025: when, how long will it last

The first of the two summer fasts, Peter's Fast, will begin for Orthodox believers on June 16, last for 26 days, and end on July 11. This post is called apostolic because it was established in memory of the early days of Christianity, when the disciples, following the example of Jesus, were preparing for missionary work. Like Christ in the desert, they prayed, labored, and abstained from food.

The feast of Peter and Paul: important signs that absolutely must not be done

Orthodox Christians celebrate Peter's Day on July 12 every year.

Believers honor Peter and Paul during the days of fasting and strive to achieve personal spiritual purity through prayer and self-restraint, Natalia Zinovich, a historian and cultural critic, explained to Izvestia.

If the end date of the Petrov fast is unchanged — it is always July 12, the Day of Remembrance of the Apostles Peter and Paul, then the beginning depends on the passing date of Easter and Trinity. Previously, it was called the fast of Pentecost, and it can last from 8 to 42 days.

Who are the Apostles Peter and Paul?

So much is known about the deeds of Peter and Paul, and their exploits are so significant for the formation of Christianity that the church distinguishes them from other apostles. Although it is specified that there are no first among the apostles, nevertheless, Peter and Paul are commonly called the first-born (the most significant). At the same time, Paul never saw the Savior at all.

Peter (Simon), the elder brother of the Apostle Andrew the First—Called, was also a simple fisherman. On the contrary, Paul (Saul) is the son of rich and noble parents, a Roman scholar, a Jew, and a "scribe." Peter witnessed Christ's earthly life from the very beginning, denied him three times, but repented and became one of the main preachers of the doctrine. Paul was initially a persecutor of Christians and came to believe much later than the Ascension.

In Peter, the church sees the image of a Christian who sinned but reformed; in Paul, the image of one who opposed Christianity and subsequently believed. Both of them were martyred in Rome on June 29, 67 (July 12— New style). Every year on this day, the church honors the memory of the two first-born apostles, and the next day, on July 13, the feast of All the Apostles is celebrated (the Council of the Glorious and All-Laudable Twelve Apostles).

What can I eat on Petrov Fast days?

Petrov's post is considered relatively lax. It is forbidden to eat meat, eggs, dairy products, including butter. Fish is allowed on all days except Wednesday and Friday. On Mondays, hot food without vegetable oil is acceptable, and on Wednesdays and Fridays, you can only eat raw food. This is a summer fast, so you should pay attention to berries, fruits, herbs and vegetables according to the season. Mushrooms and nuts are also allowed. Cold and hot summer soups are especially popular at this time (beetroot, okroshka, botvinya from young greens, green cabbage soup). You can bake lean fish pies or bake the whole fish in the dough.

There are days of fasting and relaxation. As Archpriest Alexander Ilyashenko explained, during the days of fasting, you can drink a little wine: the statute allows it, the main thing is to observe the measure. Wine is acceptable on Saturday and Sunday, as well as on holidays and the veneration of great saints. So, on June 19, the church celebrates All Saints' Day, and on July 7, the Nativity of John the Baptist.

Traditionally, pregnant and lactating women, young children and the sick are exempt from fasting. Before starting the fast, it is necessary to consult with your doctor. The clergy also remind that the main task of any fast is spiritual improvement, not a hunger strike.

Those who are serious about fasting need to undergo training, and it is embedded in Orthodox traditions, Ivan Romasov, an INVITRO internist, explained to Izvestia. He also listed products that will help the body get the necessary substances. For example, protein is found in mushrooms, legumes, and nuts, while iron is found in greens, dried fruits, and whole grains. Broccoli, sesame seeds and almonds will help to make up for the lack of calcium, while omega-3 is found in fish, nuts, vegetable oils and tofu. According to the doctor, the exit from the fast should be just as smooth. Animal products should be returned to the diet gradually, slowly expanding the range and quantity.

What not to do in the Petrov Post

During the days of fasting, the clergy recommend devoting time to yourself, these are days of cleansing your thoughts and soul, praying and working on yourself. You should not quarrel, offend your loved ones, or hold a grudge yourself. It makes sense to limit entertainment and entertainment, not to waste time aimlessly. Also, during the days of fasting, it is especially important to do good deeds and give alms.

On the issue of marital fasting, the clergy emphasize that the spouses themselves must be their own law and be guided by the words of the Apostle Paul: "Do not deviate from each other, except by consent, for a while, to practice fasting and prayer, and then be together again, so that Satan does not tempt you with your intemperance."

Is it possible to get married in Petrov Post

Despite the fact that summer is traditionally the time for weddings, it is not recommended to hold a celebration on the days of lent, and the wedding ceremony is not held in the temple. On Peter and Paul Day, June 12, believers go to church in the morning, and then the family gathers for a meal — everything is already possible. And if you still can't get married on July 12, then you can get married at the registry office.