The Gramnitsy rite is performed in the village of Novoye Polesie, Lelchitsy District on the day when Orthodox believers mark Candlemas. The rite is unique because it has survived through time unchanged. Participants of the rite decorate a small fir tree and then a solemn procession carrying the fir tree walks the streets of the village heading to the cross at the crossroads. The villagers believe that the rite protects not only the whole village, but also every family, every house, and every person.
Photos by Sergei Kholodilin
