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St Mary's Day – August 15, 2024

St. Mary’s Day is on August 15, and we’re going to show you how you can celebrate this day in the best way possible. Do you know that it has been 1,700 years since The Feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God was observed for the first time? The Feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God or St. Mary’s Day marks the “sleeping of Mary.” It is the day she ascended to heaven. In Romania, it is a national holiday and most schools, offices, and banks are closed. Children dress up in white and march together while singing hymns dedicated to St. Mary

History of St Mary's Day

The first references to St. Mary’s Day are found in Greek texts dating fourth century A.D. Some Christians believed that Mary was martyred. Other narratives suggest that Mary in her later years was serving at the nascent Church under Apostle John. It was around this time that Archangel Gabriel appeared in front of her and said that Mary would die in three days. When the day arrived, Mary ascended to heaven, leaving a sweet fragrance behind. Orthodox Christians believe that Mary died a natural death and that Jesus Christ accepted her soul after death. The Catholic Church believes that Mary ascended into heaven with her body.

This day came to be celebrated as The Feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God or St. Mary. In many countries, it is celebrated as Assumption Day as the ascending of St. Mary is also known as the Assumption of St. Mary. Many churches in Romania depict St. Mary’s paintings, including her assumption.

In Romania, Assumption Day is a public holiday. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists assemble in Transylvania and Moldavia. Children often dress up in traditional white attire and sing hymns together. In the country, St. Mary is regarded as the patron saint of the naval forces and hence it is also their Navy Day. New naval ships are featured on this day which attracts thousands of visitors.

St Mary's Day timeline

300 A.D.
The First Texts

The Assumption of Mary to heaven is mentioned in Greek texts.

600 A.D.
The Doctrine Is Articulated

The first doctrine of the Assumption of Mary is articulated by Theotokos.

1100 A.D.
The Tomb Is Made

The Church of the Sepulchre of St. Mary or the Tomb of the Virgin Mary is constructed.

1900s
St. Mary's Day

The Assumption of Mary into heaven is observed in Romania as St. Mary's Day.

St Mary's Day FAQs

Why is September 8 the birthday of Mary?

September 8 is said to be the birthday of Mary as it marks the Nativity of Mary and since the year began on September 1 in Constantinople.

How old was Mary when Jesus was born?

Mary is said to have been 16 and Joseph 18. This was the normal age for marriage for people of the Jewish faith.

Did Jesus have a wife?

Though it is a debatable topic, Mary Magdalene is said to be the companion of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Philip.

How to Observe St Mary's Day

  1. Take part in the celebrations

    St. Mary's Day is a grand event in Romania. It is also Navy Day and features spectacular shows by the Navy. If you are planning to visit Romania, this would be a great time!

  2. Share it on social media

    Let everyone know you're celebrating this day. Take pictures of you and your close ones taking part in the St. Mary's Day celebrations and share them on social media.

  3. Let your religious side out

    Use this day to connect with the almighty. Go to church and take part in the St. Mary's Day celebrations.

5 Facts About Romania That Will Blow Your Mind

  1. It had electric street lighting first

    Timișoara, Romania was the first city in Europe to have electric street lighting.

  2. The tallest wooden church is here

    The tallest wooden church with a height of 257 feet is found in Sapanta Peri, Romania.

  3. Homosapien fossils were found here

    The earliest Homosapien fossils about 37,000 years old were found in The Cave of Bones, southwest Romania.

  4. Romania comes from Romanus

    The word Romania comes from the Latin word ‘Romanus’ which means citizens of the Roman Empire.

  5. There is a hidden glacier here

    Romania is home to the Scărișoara Glacier which is found under the Bihor Mountains.

Why St Mary's Day is Important

  1. It gives us a chance to take part in something amazing

    The events and demonstrations in Romania on St. Mary's Day are something that should not be missed. It is a day to take part in something fun.

  2. It gives us a chance to do something with our loved ones

    This day gives us a chance to participate in events with friends and family. It brings families closer.

  3. It gives us a chance to be religious

    This day provides us with an opportunity to let out our spiritual side and connect with our higher self. Take time out today to connect to something more spiritual.

St Mary's Day dates

YearDateDay
2024August 15Thursday
2025August 15Friday
2026August 15Saturday
2027August 15Sunday
2028August 15Tuesday

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