Paștele Blajinilor

By far, one of the coolest Moldovan holidays. Paștele Blajinilor, which translates to Memorial Easter or Easter of the Dead. My host family was away for this holiday, so Kerry invited me to celebrate in one of her neighboring villages. And I’m so glad she did.

We started off by visiting Kerry’s partner teacher, Valentina, in the village Baimaclia. We ate and drink a little before we walked to the village’s cemetery together. Even though many people were attending the church service that was happening at the same time, the cemetery was filled with families from all over the village. They were there with food and wine to honor the loved ones, just picnicking throughout the grounds.

Each grave was decorated with foods, candies, cups, glasses, towels, candles, and other small household items. As you visit friends, they tell you about their loved one. The local priest went around the yard blessing the graves.

When church service was over, loud bells rung out. At this time, everyone gathered around their loved ones’ grave and lifted the alms up as a symbol of raising them to the heavens. Then, the people gave the items that had been on the graves away to others. When you use one of the given items, you’re to think of loved one the item represented. I received candy and food along with a mug and hand towel. Although multiple people gave me gifts, they all were in memory of the same person: Maria E. Borzin.

At this point, a lot of families started heading home. And those remaining walked around with wine or beer to share in honor of their loved one.