Russians to enjoy shortest work week of the year

Russians will enjoy a week of church and state holidays. On Monday, the Orthodox Holy Week begins - the last week before Easter. The Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Kirill will perform liturgy and prayer at the Donskoy Monastery of Moscow, which will host the chrism ceremony.

The Patriarch will sprinkle holy water on the heater, boiler, vessels with spices, wine and oil that are used for the making incense. 

During the Holy Week, Orthodox believers observed the most severe week of fasting. During these days, believers honor the last days of Jesus Christ before his crucifixion, which is remembered on Good Friday. The Holy Week ends at midnight on Saturday, when Easter begins and believers greet each other saying "Christ has resurrected." 

In addition, the current workweek will be the shortest of the year in Russia. Most Russians will have to go to work only on April 29 and 30. In honor of Labor Day, celebrations will last for five days - from Wednesday to Sunday, May 1-5, and Victory Day will last for four days, from Thursday to Sunday, May 9-12 inclusive.