In the Greek Orthodox Church, there is a longstanding tradition of praying for the departed souls of our brothers and sisters. Saturdays are particularly significant for this purpose, as our Lord’s own passing occurred on Great and Holy Saturday.
Two main Saturdays each year, known as ’Saturday of Souls,’ are dedicated to remembering the departed: the Saturday before Meatfare Sunday (March 9, 2024) and the Saturday before Pentecost.
While some traditions have local origins, many have been embraced by the broader Church. For example, in some regions, the Saturday before the feast of Saint Demetrios is observed as a Saturday of Souls.
Most Churches also recognize two additional Saturdays of Souls, honoring the ascetic saints and the miracle of kollyva by Saint Theodore the Tyro during Great Lent.
Though not officially designated as Saturdays of Souls, these days hold deep significance for praying for the departed and their eternal rest.
On the Saturday of Souls, Orthodox Christians remember all the departed souls, asking for God’s forgiveness and rest for their spirits. We also include in our prayers all those who have passed away in the hope of Christ’s Resurrection.
May their memories be eternal!
Author-source: Bishop Athenagoras of Nazianzos, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America