Annually, on July 8, an important Russian holiday is celebrated - Family, Love, and Fidelity Day. Symbolically, it was first celebrated in 2008, which was declared the Year of the Family in Russia.
This holiday was established at the initiative of the deputies of the State Duma of the Russian Federation, supported by all traditional religious organizations in Russia - because the idea of celebrating Family, Love, and Fidelity Day has no confessional boundaries. Every religion has examples of family fidelity and love.
The idea of the holiday arose from the residents of the city of Murom (Vladimir region), where the relics of the holy spouses Peter and Fevronia, the protectors of Christian marriage, whose memory is celebrated on July 8, are kept.
In the lives of Peter and Fevronia, traits that traditional religions in Russia have always associated with the ideal of marriage are embodied, namely: piety, mutual love and fidelity, deeds of mercy, and concern for the various needs of their fellow citizens.
But the family is also a very important social unit that is protected by law. Article 38 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation clearly states that:
1. Motherhood and childhood, the family, are protected by the state.
2. Care for children, their upbringing - the equal right and duty of parents.
3. Able-bodied children who have reached 18 years of age must care for their incapacitated parents.
The beginning of the celebration of Family, Love, and Fidelity Day in 2008 marked a new state policy regarding the strengthening of the nation’s health, the preservation and development of the family institution, the encouragement of moral, spiritual, and patriotic education of the younger generation.
The family holiday has a commemorative medal “For Love and Fidelity,” which is awarded on July 8, and a very delicate symbol - the daisy, as this wildflower has long been considered in Russia as a symbol of love.
Every year, Family, Love, and Fidelity Day becomes more and more popular. In many Russian cities, local authorities and public organizations organize various festive and ceremonial events - congratulatory concerts, various exhibitions and competitions, honoring large families and spouses who have lived together for more than 25 years, charitable actions, and more. By the way, young people believe that a marriage concluded on July 8 will be long and happy.
The main events of Family, Love, and Fidelity Day traditionally take place in the historical homeland of the holiday - in the city of Murom. Here, theatrical performances, reconstructions of scenes from the lives of Saints Peter and Fevronia, and workshops on rare crafts are organized. Guests and residents of the city visit fairs, attractions, and participate in animation programs. Pilgrims visit holy places and venerate the relics of the miracle workers from Murom, praying for help in finding their second half or for harmony, respect, and mutual understanding in families.