Bulgarian Orthodox Christians Mark Ascension Day
Culture | May 13, 2010, Thursday // 15:41| views
The Saint Spas church in the coastal town of Nessebar. File photo
The Orthodox church in Bulgaria marks Thursday Ascension Day, or the so called Spasovden, which relates to the ascension of Jesus into heaven following his crucifixion and resurrection.
It is believed that during the forty-day period after his resurrection, he preached and intermingled with his apostles and disciples.
The holiday marks the end of the Easter period and is dedicated to St Spas the Healer.
According to tradition, it was first celebrated in 68 A.D. however there is no written evidence of the Ascension Day feast until about 385.
Spasovden is also the professional day of bread makers, drivers, builders, and inn keepers. People named Spas for men and Spaksa, Spasena, Spasuna for women celebrate their name day Thursday.
Back