Memorable dates of Russia: Day of Slavic Written Language and Culture

The 24th of May is the Day of Slavic Written Language and Culture. After many decades of neglect, this holiday was revived in 1986, and received the status of a state in 1991. It is associated with the memory of the Saints Cyril and Methodius, the founders of Slavonic writing. The May 24th celebrating tradition in church traces its history as far back as from the XI century.

In honor of Day of Slavic Writing the Divine Liturgy, religious processions, pilgrimages to monasteries mission of Russia, scientific and practical conferences, exhibitions and concerts are going on in all the temples around Russia. But the main events are traditionally being held in Moscow.

Gala concert in honor of the Day of Slavic Written Language will take place on May 24 in Moscow. Its venue will be the Red Square. Head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Kirill will deliver a speech before the concert.

Russian choirs totaling more than two thousand people will be the participants of the concert. Also in the agenda are the performances of the famous soloists of the major opera houses of Russia, popular singers, and theater and movie artists.

A miniature about St. Prince Vladimir was prepared specially for a celebratory concert. This year marks the 1,000th anniversary of his death. The composer’s Georgy Sviridov work was put at the basis of the performance. The music by Peter Tchaikovsky dedicated to Cyril and Methodius will also be played.