Serbian Slava in March: Spiritual Joy During Great Lent

The Golden Rule of March Slavas: The Lenten Meal

The biggest question for the diaspora celebrating a Slava in March is the preparation of the festive table. Church canon is clear: if a Slava falls during the Great Lent, preparing a non-fasting (mrsna) meal with meat or dairy is considered a sin and disrespect to the Saint.

• Strict Fasting: Depending on the week of Lent, the fast can be on water or oil and fish. March Slavas are an opportunity to showcase creativity in preparing delicious Lenten specialties, from bean stews (prebranac) and fish to Lenten stuffed cabbage (sarma) and desserts.

• The Essence is Prayer: Precisely because there is no lavish feast, the focus of March Slavas shifts to the essential elements: the Slava bread (kolač), wheat (žito), wine, and communal prayer before the family icon.

Mladenci - The Holy 40 Martyrs of Sebaste (March 22nd)

This date is a "red letter" day in the church calendar, dedicated to the Holy 40 Martyrs of Sebaste, Roman soldiers who died for the Christian faith. In Serbian folk tradition, this holiday is known as Mladenci (The Newlyweds) and is dedicated to love and new beginnings.

• A Holiday for Young Couples: Mladenci is celebrated by couples in their first year of marriage, specifically those who wed after March 22nd of the previous year.

• "Mladenčići" (Honey Cakes): The most famous custom is for young housewives to rise early and bake 40 small, round cookies called "mladenčići." They are coated with honey to symbolize a long, happy, and "sweet" married life, in memory of the 40 Martyrs.

• Gifts for the Home: Custom dictates that guests bring gifts to help the young couple establish their new household.

• Gift Recommendation: Instead of fleeting items, give the newlyweds something that will become part of their family tradition—a high-quality Slava set or an icon of the Saint they will celebrate as their future family protector. This is the foundation of their spiritual home. Below are also some examples of dedicated theme gifts for Mladenci. 

St. Theodore's Saturday (Moveable Lenten Feast)

This Saturday is dedicated to St. Theodore Tyro. Although he has a fixed date (March 2nd in the new calendar), he is most widely celebrated by the people on the first Saturday of Great Lent, which often falls in March.

• St. Theodore's Cavalry: In many parts of Serbia, it is believed that St. Theodore rides on a horse, leading a procession of saints. This day is especially respected in villages that raise horses.

• Essential Wheat (Žito): As for every Slava, and especially during Lent, preparing blessed wheat (koljivo) is a central part of the ritual in honor of the saint.

Equip Your Home for Lent and Holidays with Serbian Shop

March is the time when the home should be filled with the scent of frankincense as we spiritually prepare for Easter. Serbian Shop is here to support you in preserving tradition, with worldwide shipping:

• For Lenten Days: In our offer, find the highest quality frankincense, charcoal, and censers, essential for daily prayer during Lent.

• For Mladenci: Our collection of exclusive gilded icons is a gift that remains in the family for generations.

• For Hosts: Vigil lamps (kandila) and candle holders crafted using old techniques will complete your home altar.

May your March Slava be modest in food, but rich in faith and love.