Today, June 18, the 16-day period of the Apostles' Fast begins for Orthodox Christians in Bulgaria. This is the second longest fasting season after the Great Lent and aims at spiritual purification and preparation for the feast of St. Apostles Peter and Paul on June 29.
In many churches, the first water blessing will be performed, and the priests will explain the rules - abstinence from meat, eggs and dairy products, except for fish on certain days. The goal of the church is for the believers to go through the fast with prayer, love and good deeds.
Local parishes organize discussions on the significance of the fast and its influence on spiritual and physical balance. Some cultural centers and community halls in small settlements also offer workshops on traditions, prayer music and healthy fasting cooking to help participants embrace this period as an opportunity for inner renewal.