Orthodox religious traditions observed in Podlaskie, Poland

Orthodox religious traditions and pilgrimages are being observed in the Podlaskie region of Poland. The 31st Walking Pilgrimage of the Military and Uniformed Services recently traveled to the Holy Mountain of Grabarka, the most significant Orthodox sanctuary in Poland.

The pilgrimage began with a Divine Liturgy in Siemiatycze and included members of the 1st Podlaska Border Defense Brigade led by Brigadier General Mieczysław Gurgielewicz. Participants from various uniformed services, including the Border Guard, Police, and Fire Service, carried votive crosses along the route to the sanctuary.

In the village of Ciełuszki, local residents celebrated the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord. The tradition involves the blessing of fruits and homes, featuring a procession where a priest visits houses to pray and bless properties. While historical customs included blessing fields and livestock, modern celebrations focus on the village settlements.