Lent

For Orthodox Christians, the Virgin's Lent begins, preceding the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on August 15. This period of fasting was established in honor of the Mother of God, whose life, according to Church tradition, was dedicated to fasting and prayer, especially towards the end of her earthly days as she prepared for her ascension.

Today marks the joyous celebration of Easter, one of the most significant holidays in the Orthodox Christian calendar. As believers across the world commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, cherished rites and traditions come to life, ushering in a season of renewal and hope.

Lazarus Saturday is a Christian holiday dedicated to Lazarus of Bethany and his miraculous resurrection by Jesus Christ and celebrated on the Saturday before the feast of Palm Sunday and Holy Week. Traditionally, green willow branches are broken off on Lazarus Day to adorn the doors on the following day, Palm Sunday.

The Easter Basket of more affordable goods for the traditional Orthodox Easter feast has come into effect until May 4, the same day on which the Lenten Basket for lower-priced lenten foods comes to an end.

Today marks the commencement of the Great Lent, or the Great Fast a period of profound significance in the Christian calendar. It is a time for repentance, prayer, and humility as believers prepare themselves to meet the greatest Christian holiday, the Resurrection of Christ - Easter (Pascha) - with dignity.

The initial feedback regarding the "Lenten Basket" initiative is encouraging, as per reports from Ministry of Development officials.

Prices for the most essential items that typically feature on the Lenten menu are either lower or comparable to last year's figures.

The Lenten Basket of lower-priced goods for the Clean Monday holiday and the period of Orthodox Lent will be available as of Wednesday.

The special basket, which will be available until May 4, will include products such as legumes, rice, pasta and frozen vegetables, halva, frozen seafood and Lenten salads.

The decision regarding the so-called "basket" of basic goods with reduced prices was published in the Government Gazette on Friday, making the price tags effective from March 13 until May 4.

The Lenten Basket - with lower prices of goods consumed during the period of Lent - will be available from Wednesday, March 13 until May 4, according to the ministerial decision signed on Tuesday by Development Minister Kostas Skrekas.

The Lenten Basket with lower prices of goods consumed during the period of Lent - will be available from Wednesday,  March 13 until May 4, according to the ministerial decision signed on Tuesday by Development Minister Kostas Skrekas.