The Dormition (Falling Asleep) of the Theotokos is one of the Great Feasts of the Orthodox Church, celebrated on August 28 for those churches using the Julian Calendar, and on August 15 in the Gregorian calendar. The Feast of the Dormition, which is also sometimes called the Assumption, commemorates the death, resurrection and glorification of Christ’s mother. It proclaims that Mary has been “assumed” by God into the heavenly kingdom of Christ in the fullness of her spiritual and bodily existence.

Interesting Facts

• During the sixth century, a basilica was constructed over the tomb of Mary in Gethsemane, a garden at the foot of the Mount of Olives in East Jerusalem. It is here that according to the New Testament, Jesus was arrested before his crucifixion.
• This day is often associated with the blessing of herbs and flowers as the fragrance reminds them of the scent of holiness, which is what filled the empty tomb. It is customary in some places to bring these things on this feast day to be blessed by a priest.