The cemetery is traditionally a sacred place. Despite the fact that death is a natural outcome of each person’s life, and cemeteries grow and expand in the course of natural events, many often ask themselves when to visit the graves of deceased loved ones.
The question about the frequency of visiting cemeteries in front of the townsfolk arises quite often. After all, everyone has their own understanding of when and how to visit the graves: some go strictly on established days, others almost like work. The church makes recommendations when it is necessary to go to the churchyard.
Naturally, such instructions are just a recommendation: it is impossible to force a person to strictly adhere to established rules. Therefore, you can simply take them as a basis, and then determine a convenient schedule for yourself.
What days are set for visiting cemeteries
Usually, the church recommends visiting the churchyard on the days of the commemoration of the deceased, on the day of the death of the one who is going to visit the cemetery, in Radonitsa, and also visiting the cemetery every Saturday is allowed - it is considered a funeral day. The days of commemoration of the dead include the 3rd, 9th, 40th days after death.
In Radonitsa, the commemoration of the deceased takes place on Monday or Tuesday of the week following Easter. It is more commonly colloquially called parental day. But despite such a gradation, many carry Radonitsa the weekend in front of her. This is due to the fact that the majority of the population works and on a working day cannot find enough time to visit the graveyard. After all, it’s not enough just to come to the grave, it is necessary to clean it: throw out old and faded flowers, wash those that still look decent, pick out the weeds, put on a plate a special treat.
Since Radonitsa is celebrated after Easter, colored eggs, cakes, sweets, etc. are usually used as treats. However, this does not limit you, and you may well bring something else.
A visit to the cemetery on Radonitsa is among the necessary and commemorates the fact that Christ descended into hell and defeated death. Such a day is considered a kind of holiday for the departed. After all, relatives gathering at the grave congratulate them on the resurrection of the Lord.
As for the church holidays - Christmas, Trinity, Annunciation, etc. - It is highly recommended not to go to cemeteries these days. After all, the deceased people no longer belong to this world, but are in the kingdom of heaven. A common mistake is considered to be a trip to the cemetery in Easter, as this is a holiday of the living.
On all other days, if there is a desire, it is recommended to attend church and put candles at rest.
