Orthodox calendar: important days for believers in November

The Orthodox calendar for November 2025 includes several important church holidays and days of commemoration of saints — the Day of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God, the memory of the Holy Great Martyr Demetrius of Thessalonica and the beginning of the Nativity Fast. The main holidays celebrated in Russia in November — in the Izvestia article

November 1 — Dmitrievskaya Parents' Saturday

Memorial Day, which falls on the Saturday before the feast of the Holy Great Martyr Demetrius of Thessalonica.

On this day, believers pray for the repose of their deceased relatives and loved ones.

November 4 — Celebration of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God

This holiday commemorates the liberation of Moscow and Russia from the Polish invaders in 1612.

The Kazan icon is considered the defender of the Fatherland and a symbol of national unity.

November 8 is the Memorial Day of the Holy Great Martyr Demetrius of Thessalonica.

Demetrius of Thessalonica was a soldier who suffered for his faith in the third century.

His memory is revered as a defender of the Christian faith and an example of courage.

November 9 is the Memorial Day of St. Nestor the Chronicler.

The Monk Nestor was a monk of the Kiev Caves Lavra and the first chronicler of Ancient Russia.

His works played an important role in preserving the historical memory of the people.

November 10 is the Memorial Day of the Martyr Paraskeva, named Friday.

Saint Paraskeva was an early Christian martyr who refused to worship pagan gods and suffered for her faith.

Her relics are considered healing.

November 21 — Cathedral of Archangel Michael and Other Celestial Bodiless Powers (Michaelmas)

This holiday is dedicated to Archangel Michael and all the heavenly powers.

It symbolizes the victory of good over evil and the strengthening of the spirit of believers.

November 22 — Icons of the Mother of God, called the "Skoroposlushnitsa"

The holiday is dedicated to the icon of the Mother of God "Skoroposlushnitsa", known for its quick help in prayers.

November 26 is the Memorial Day of St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople.

St. John Chrysostom was an outstanding preacher and teacher of the Church, known for his works and pastoral ministry.

November 27 — St. Philip the Apostle

The Apostle Philip was one of the twelve apostles and actively preached Christianity in various regions.

November 28 — The beginning of the Christmas Fast (Philippov Fast)

The Nativity fast lasts for 40 days and prepares believers for the feast of the Nativity of Christ.

It starts on November 28 and lasts until January 6.