Apple-Asparagus on August 6: What to Bring to Church and What to Avoid.

On Wednesday, August 6, Ukrainians celebrate one of the biggest festivals of summer - the Transfiguration of the Lord, known as Apple-Asparagus or Second Asparagus. Believers go to church with festive baskets full of food, which are then blessed. This food is considered blessed and healing, but it is important to follow the church's instructions regarding the foods.

What the festive basket symbolizes at Apple-Asparagus

The basket at Apple-Asparagus is not just a collection of food, but a symbol:

• Gratitude to God for the harvest;
• Purification of body and soul;
• Family unity;
• Memory of the deceased.

After the blessing, people traditionally gather at the table, pray, and share the blessed food. The celebrations should be modest and peaceful, without excessive pomp and entertainment.

What is blessed at Apple-Asparagus - allowed foods

It is recommended to place the following products in the festive basket:

1. Apples - the main symbol of the festival

2. Other seasonal fruits: pears, plums, grapes, peaches, apricots, as well as imported fruits.

3. Vegetables: tomatoes, carrots, beets, cucumbers, onions, and others. These are gifts from the earth.

4. Honey and bee products: Although celebrated at Honey-Asparagus, honey can also be blessed at Apple-Asparagus.

5. Bread, pastries, grains: bread, wreaths, pies, ears, and others, as a symbol of gratitude for daily bread.

6. Herbs, flowers, spices: healing herbs and flowers can also be blessed at this festival.

What to never bless at Apple-Asparagus

It is a mistake to bring food to the church that violates the Uspensky Fast, which lasts during this time. Prohibited products include meat, dairy, eggs, alcohol, and fish. The priest may refuse to bless the basket with prohibited items.

The celebration of the Transfiguration of the Lord, known as Apple-Asparagus, is a tradition in Ukraine that unites religious and national symbols, beliefs, and customs. On this day, it is important to honor the traditions and preserve their peculiarities by adhering to the church rules and respectful customs.