Tomorrow is GREAT MEMORIAL DAY, and this is what you should never do at the cemetery: It is considered an insult to the deceased
Memorial days are times when family and friends honor the deceased through prayer, lighting candles, and quiet remembrance. The first memorial day of 2026 is on February 14th and is called Great or Winter Memorial Day.

TL;DR
- Memorial days are for honoring the deceased through prayer, candles, and quiet remembrance.
- The first Memorial Day in 2026 is February 14th, known as Great or Winter Memorial Day.
- The church stresses that prayer is the core obligation, not external rituals.
- Traditional offerings include koljivo (boiled and sweetened wheat) and bread dipped in honey.
- Koljivo symbolizes resurrection, while bread symbolizes the sweetness of eternal life.
- Excessive food, drink, and inappropriate behavior are discouraged as they detract from the spiritual purpose.
- Consulting a priest is recommended to ensure the commemoration is in line with its spiritual purpose.
- Solemnity, prayer, and respect should define funeral and memorial services.