The OCU has released the calendar of major church holidays for April 2026
In April 2026, Orthodox Christians will celebrate key events of the liturgical year, including the greatest feast—Easter—as well as Palm Sunday and Holy Week.
The church calendar for this month is filled with days commemorating the holy apostles, martyrs, and venerable ascetics.
April begins with a period of strict fasting and preparation for the end of Great Lent.
On April 4, the Church commemorates Lazarus Saturday, and the following day, April 5, celebrates “The Lord’s Entry into Jerusalem,” known among the people as Palm Sunday. These events mark the beginning of the most important week in the life of a Christian.
Special attention is given to Holy Week, when the final days of the Savior’s earthly life are commemorated. On April 9, believers will observe Maundy Thursday, and on April 10—Good Friday, a day of the strictest fasting and mourning.
These days serve as spiritual preparation for the main event of the year.
The central date of the month will be April 12—the Bright Resurrection of the Lord (Easter). After the solemn services, Bright Week will begin, lasting through April 18.
During this period, fasting is suspended, and services are conducted according to a special Easter rite.
The second half of the month is dedicated to honoring outstanding saints and apostles.
In particular, on April 23, the Church prayerfully commemorates “Saint George the Great Martyr, Victorious and Wonderworker,” who is one of the most revered saints in the Christian world. His figure symbolizes the unbreakable faith and victory over evil.
At the end of the month, on April 25, the memory of Saint Mark the Apostle and Evangelist is honored. The April cycle concludes on April 30 with the commemoration of Saint James the Apostle, brother of Saint John the Theologian.
These dates help believers maintain their spiritual focus after the conclusion of the Easter celebrations.
As a reminder, Ukraine, along with the rest of the world, is celebrating one of the most joyful holidays of the year today—April Fools’ Day.
Also, on March 31, the church calendar commemorates the memory of the Venerable Hypatius, Bishop of Ganges.
