Orthodox Moldovans celebrate Day of Rejoicing Monday

Chisinau, 19 April /MOLDPRES/ - Orthodox Christians celebrate the Day of Rejoicing (Memorial Easter) today and on 20 April. In rural areas, people also call it “Rohmani” when referring to the holiday, called “Pastele Blajinilor” in Moldovan. These days, people travel to cemeteries where they give alms for the departed souls of the Blajini ("gentle/kind-hearted ones").

According to folklore, people believe the departed souls are among the first people on Earth. According to legend, the Blajini live without their women, reuniting them for only 30 days a year for the purpose of procreation. Unable to commit evil deeds, the Blajini lie beyond the visible world, where Apa Sambetei (Saturday Water) flows, on the White Island. Their most important activities are praying and fasting for the living. It is believed that although they are virtuous, the Blajini do not know how to determine when Easter will fall each year. The people give them the news that Memorial Easter began by throwing red eggshells into the water.

On the Day of Rejoicing, people traditionally travel to cemeteries and give alms of red eggs, cozonac (sweet bread) and pasca (traditional Easter pastry) to the needy, as well as lay flowers on graves.

Also on this day, people mention not only passed away acquaintances, but all ancestors in their family tree. Each woman brings a towel which is tied together with a candle at one end. The towel is offered as a gift to the priest who reads the diptychs.

(Reporter D. Moraru, Editor L. Alcaza)