Festivals Calendar

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August 2008
6 August		The Transfiguration The Transfiguration commemorates Jesus being transformed in the presence of three of his disciples, Peter, James and John, on a mountain top. The disciples saw Jesus with Moses and Elijah and heard a voice saying, 'This is my own dear Son with whom I am pleased - listen to him'. The Transfiguration is a major festival for Orthodox Christians. Orthodox Church in America - Transfiguration.
10 August		Tisha B'Av Tisha B'Av is the saddest day of the Jewish calendar. A full day fast is held at the conclusion of three weeks of mourning and reflection, focusing on the destruction of the first and second Temples in Jerusalem, and other tragedies in Jewish history. Tisha B'Av.
15 August		Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary celebrates Mary being 'taken up', body and soul to heaven. Catholic communities often mark the festival with processions. Orthodox Christians celebrate the Dormition, Falling Asleep of the Blessed Virgin Mary, meaning her death, on this day. The Mary Page: A Variety of Customs Associated with the Assumption.
16 August		Raksha Bandhan Raksha Bandhan is about brotherly protection ('raksha' means 'protection', and 'bandhan' means to 'tie'). On this Hindu festival, traditionally, sisters tie amulets of coloured thread, symbolising protection from evil, around their brothers' wrists and give them an Indian sweet. In return brothers give their sisters gifts. Raksha Bandhan.
16 August		The Night of Forgiveness (Lailat-ul-Bara'h) The Night of Forgiveness (Lailat-ul-Bara'h) takes place two weeks before Ramadan. Muslims spend the night in prayer seeking God's guidance and forgiveness for their sins. Many Muslims believe that a person's destiny is fixed for the coming year by God, on this night. In some parts of the world Muslims visit the graves of relatives, and the giving of charity is also traditional. BBC Religion and Ethics: Lailat-ul-Bara'h.
24 August		Janamashtami / Krishna Jayanti The birthday of Krishna is widely celebrated by Hindus. Many will fast till midnight, the time of Krishna's birth, when he is welcomed with singing, dancing and sweets. In some homes and temples an image of the baby Krishna is put in a cradle and special sweets are offered and distributed. Ealing Grid for Learning: Janamashtami.

[Last updated: 04/06/08]