When Is Lazarus Saturday 2027?
Lazarus Saturday 2027 falls on Saturday, April 24, 2027, in the Eastern Orthodox Church calendar. The holy day commemorates Jesus Christ raising Lazarus from the dead after four days in the tomb, demonstrating His power over death and preparing Christians for Palm Sunday and Holy Week.
Also see: Orthodox Holy Week 2027 Calendar: Dates, Services & Fasting Rules
What is Lazarus Saturday?
Lazarus Saturday is an important feast in Eastern Orthodox Christianity that commemorates the resurrection of Lazarus of Bethany by Jesus Christ. According to the Gospel of John, Lazarus had been dead for four days when Jesus arrived at his tomb and called him to come out.
The miracle is recorded in John 11:1–45. It reveals Jesus as the source of life and points toward the Christian belief in the resurrection of the dead. Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America+1
The feast is celebrated immediately before Palm Sunday, linking the miracle at Bethany with Jesus’ triumphant entrance into Jerusalem. Together, these observances prepare Orthodox Christians for the solemn events of Holy Week, including Christ’s suffering, crucifixion, and resurrection. Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America+1
How Do Orthodox Christians Celebrate Lazarus Saturday?
Lazarus Saturday is celebrated with special church services, Scripture readings, hymns, and prayers. The Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom is traditionally celebrated, with readings that include Hebrews 12:28–13:8 and John 11:1–45. Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America+1
Common observances include:
- Attending church services: Worshipers gather to commemorate the raising of Lazarus and reflect on the promise of resurrection.
- Reading the Gospel: Families and individuals may read John 11 to revisit the biblical account and its spiritual lessons.
- Praying and reflecting: Christians use the day to prepare spiritually for Holy Week and Easter.
- Participating in local traditions: Customs vary among Orthodox communities and countries, including special foods, hymns, and activities for children.
In some Orthodox communities, children make simple crosses from palm branches or participate in traditional songs and processions. Such customs are not universal, so local parish practices may differ.
Is Lazarus Saturday a Fasting Day?
Lazarus Saturday occurs at the end of Great Lent and immediately before Palm Sunday. Although it retains a penitential connection to the Lenten season, it has a distinctive joyful character because it celebrates the raising of Lazarus.
Orthodox fasting practices can allow particular foods on this day, with fish roe traditionally permitted in many Orthodox fasting guidelines. Exact rules and customary foods can vary by jurisdiction, so worshipers should follow the guidance of their priest or local church. Antioch Patriarchate+1
Orthodox Archdiocese of America+1
Why Is Lazarus Saturday Sometimes Called a Little Pascha?
Lazarus Saturday is sometimes called a “Little Pascha” because it celebrates a resurrection and anticipates the joy of Christ’s Resurrection at Easter. The raising of Lazarus is understood as a sign of the victory over death that Christians celebrate fully at Pascha. Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America+1
The name also reflects the distinctive liturgical character of the feast. Although it occurs before Holy Week, its services emphasize resurrection and hope rather than mourning alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What day is Lazarus Saturday in 2027?
Lazarus Saturday falls on Saturday, April 24, 2027, according to the Eastern Orthodox calendar.
When is Orthodox Palm Sunday in 2027?
Orthodox Palm Sunday will be celebrated on Sunday, April 25, 2027, one day after Lazarus Saturday.
When is Orthodox Easter in 2027?
Orthodox Easter, also known as Pascha, falls on Sunday, May 2, 2027.
Do all Christian churches celebrate Lazarus Saturday?
No. Lazarus Saturday is especially significant in Eastern Orthodox Christianity and is also observed in some Eastern Christian traditions. Western Christian churches generally do not observe it as a separate major feast in the same way.
Conclusion
Lazarus Saturday 2027 will be observed on April 24, one day before Orthodox Palm Sunday and eight days before Orthodox Easter. The feast commemorates Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead and reminds Christians of the hope, faith, and promise of resurrection at the heart of the Orthodox Easter season.
For more dates and related observances, consult the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America’s official 2027 Paschalion calendar and its guide to Lazarus Saturday.
Related:
Orthodox Bright Monday 2027: Date, Meaning & Traditions
Orthodox Good Friday 2027: Date, Start Time & Holy Week Schedule