On 15 August, Cyprus joins Orthodox communities worldwide in observing the Dormition of the Theotokos, one of the most significant feasts in the church calendar. The day commemorates the “falling asleep” of the Virgin Mary- her peaceful death, followed by her body being taken into heaven- and is marked by a mixture of solemn worship and joyful celebration.
The word ‘Dormition’ comes from the Latin dormitio, meaning “falling asleep,” reflecting the Orthodox belief that Mary experienced a natural death before her assumption into heaven. In Greek, the day is known as Koimisis tis Theotokou (Κοίμησις της Θεοτόκου), literally “the Falling Asleep of the God-bearer.” It honours not only her role as the mother of Jesus but also her place as the foremost saint in Orthodox Christianity.
History and significance
The Dormition has been celebrated since at least the 5th–6th century, when Christian communities began marking the anniversary of Mary’s death with special liturgies. In the Eastern Orthodox Church, it is one of the Twelve Great Feasts of the year, falling at the end of a two-week period of fasting from meat, dairy, and fish- a time of preparation similar to Lent.
For the faithful, the feast symbolises hope in the resurrection and eternal life, reminding worshippers that death is not an end but a passage into God’s presence.
Traditions in Cyprus
Cyprus observes 15 August as a public holiday, and many towns and villages hold religious festivals (panigyria) in honour of the Virgin Mary. Church services are often followed by gatherings with music, dancing, and traditional food, as well as market stalls and community celebrations.
Many churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary, such as those in Kato Drys, Kyperounta, and Kato Lefkara, see an influx of pilgrims on the day. In rural areas, families travel to their ancestral villages to attend the local liturgy, visit relatives, and take part in the feast.
The date also coincides with the peak of the summer holiday season, meaning that for many Cypriots, the Dormition combines religious observance with cherished time off work.
Dormition or Assumption?
While the Orthodox Church celebrates the Dormition, Roman Catholics mark the Assumption of Mary on the same date. Both traditions teach that Mary was taken into heaven body and soul, but the Catholic view does not explicitly include her death, while the Orthodox tradition sees her “falling asleep” as a central part of the event.
Regardless of theological differences, the feast remains one of the most beloved in both East and West, drawing communities together in prayer, remembrance, and celebration.
Also read:
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel.
