March 2 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)

In the liturgical calendar of the Eastern Orthodox Church, March 2nd marks a specific day in the period of Great Lent for churches that follow the Revised Julian calendar (which aligns with the Gregorian calendar). For those churches adhering to the Julian calendar (also known as the "Old Calendar"), March 2nd in the civil calendar corresponds to March 15th in their liturgical calendar.

The liturgical observances on March 2nd, regardless of calendar, are shaped by the fact that it falls within Great Lent, a season of fasting, prayer, and repentance in preparation for Pascha (Easter). The specific readings, hymns, and prayers during the Divine Liturgy and other services will reflect this penitential character. The Gospel and Epistle readings will often focus on themes of repentance, forgiveness, and the struggle against sin. Hymns chanted during services will express sorrow for sins and a longing for God's mercy.

Saints commemorated on this day may vary slightly depending on the particular Orthodox Church and the specific liturgical calendar being followed. The Synaxarion (a book containing brief lives of the saints commemorated each day) provides details about the lives and feats of these saints.

The colour of vestments worn by clergy on this day is typically a Lenten colour, such as purple or dark blue, reflecting the somber and penitential nature of the season. The veneration of icons is common, but certain joyous or festive elements are suppressed during Great Lent to maintain the focus on spiritual introspection and renewal.