Greek Traditions Community

Why do Greek Orthodox people fast?

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greggd12

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I live in a predominately Greek neighborhood and a lot of my neighbors and friends are always talking about fasting… but I'm a little confused. I didn't know some Christians fasted. What is Greek orthodox fasting? What are you allowed eat or do and what are you not allowed to do?
 
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That is such a good question. A lot of people don't know that some Greek people fast. I don't know too much about it, because I don't personally fast myself. But my grandma usually avoids eating meat eggs fish and milk before any major holidays, especially Easter.
 
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Fasting is a form of sacrifice before the feast of Easter. It' supposed to show devotion and strength
 
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In my family, name days were always open-house style, people calling, stopping by, bringing sweets, and it felt very communal. Birthdays, on the other hand, were more low-key.

Do you feel like name days still carry that same weight today? Or has it changed depending on the generation or where you live?

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