Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Calendar of Religious Events in Latvia



September 8- The Blessed Virgin Mary’s birthday
September 29- Feast of 3 Archangels- St Michael, St Gabriel, St Raphael
The liturgy celebrates the feast of these three archangels who are venerated in the tradition of the Church. Michael (Who is like God?) was the archangel who fought against Satan and all his evil angels, defending all the friends of God. He is the protector of all humanity from the snares of the devil. Gabriel (Strength of God) announced to Zachariah the forthcoming birth of John the Baptist, and to Mary, the birth of Jesus. His greeting to the Virgin, "Hail, full of grace," is one of the most familiar and frequent prayers of the Christian people. Raphael (Medicine of God) is the archangel who took care of Tobias on his journey.
October 2- Feast of the Guardian Angels
Catholics set up altars in honor of guardian angels
November 1- All Saints’ Day
In Catholic Church this day is celebrated in honour of all the saints, known and unknown.
November 2- All Souls Day
It is a day of prayer for the dead, particularly but not exclusively one's relatives. Catholic Church commemorates all of those who have died and now are in Pregatory.
November 30- Feast of St Andrew the Apostle- one of the first followers of Jesus.
November 30- First Advent- the first day of the liturgical year.
Advent is a season observed as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas.

December 7- 2nd Advent
December 8- Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Maria- celebrates the solemn belief in the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Maria.
December 14- 3rd Advent
December 21- 4th Advent
December 24- Christmas- is an annual commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ.