Russia celebrates officially International Women’s Day on March 8th in connection with its Soviet history. But there is a second Christian Women’s Day that should not be forgotten. The Feast of the Myrrh-bearing Women is celebrated every year on the second Sunday after Easter (i.e. on the 15th day from Easter Sunday). This year it falls on May 4th.

The Feast of the Myrrh-bearing Women is is dedicated to the women who first came to the tomb of the risen Christ with peace and incense to anoint His body, thus showing love and faithfulness even in the hour of sorrow. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary Cleopas, Salome, Joanna, Martha and Mary, Susanna, and others whose names are mentioned in the Gospels. This day emphasizes the special role of women in Christian history – their sacrificial service, courage and devotion to Christ their Master.

In Orthodox tradition, the holiday is also considered the Day of Christian Women: sermons are preached in churches about women’s exploits in the faith, and the Myrrh-bearing Women themselves are remembered as an example of compassion, faithfulness and hope. In popular culture, this day is associated with traditions to congratulate women, and in some countries it is associated with the analog of International Women’s Day, but with a spiritual emphasis.

We wish all Christian Women the best on this holiday and for the rest of the year!

“LOVE IS NOT WITHOUT SACRIFICE.
TRUE LOVE IS ALWAYS A SACRIFICIAL LOVE”