The Easter Fast Begins, The First 3 Days Are The Strictest: Here's How Patriarch Pavle Explained All The Rules, And According to Father Tadej, This Prayer Is The Most Powerful

February 22, 2026

TL;DR

The Easter Fast begins on February 23rd and ends on April 11th, preceding Easter.
It is considered the strictest fast, involving abstinence from meat, eggs, cheese, and milk.
Wine and oil are permitted only on specific days, and fish is allowed on Annunciation and Palm Sunday.
Fasting 'on water' is observed on most days, especially Wednesdays and Fridays, with stricter observance during the first three and last weeks.
Great Friday involves abstaining from food and drink until 3 PM, followed by a light meal 'on water'.
The fast has both a physical aspect (abstinence from food) and a spiritual aspect (renouncing sinful thoughts and deeds).
Each of the seven weeks of the fast has specific names and observances, such as 'Clean Week', 'Cross-Bowing Week', and 'Flower Week'.
Prayer is considered essential, with a simple daily prayer recommended for cultivating peace and joy.
The teachings of Father Tadej emphasize God's presence and help for all who open their hearts to Him through prayer and a lack of intellectual judgment.

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