The Pochaev Cross Procession
"Rejoice, O Full of Grace, who dost not forsake us in thy Dormition."
Pilgrims walk about 200–250 kilometers.
The journey takes 7 days.
They arrive at the Holy Dormition Pochaev Lavra.
The Pochaev Cross Procession from Kamianets-Podilskyi is a prayerful pilgrimage that has taken place annually for nearly 200 years, dedicated to the Feast of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos.
The procession sets out on August 19, the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, after the Divine Liturgy.
Pilgrims walk about 200–250 kilometers, taking 7 days to reach the Lavra.
They arrive on the eve of the Feast of the Dormition at the Holy Dormition Pochaev Lavra.
By the time the cross-bearers reach the Lavra, their number reaches more than 30,000 people. Each participant carries his own prayerful labor and receives spiritual purification. This is a unique and long-standing tradition in Ukraine — a great and regular gathering of thousands of the faithful.
The path is accompanied by prayers, hymns, and trials — heat, rain, and fatigue. In recent years, difficulties have also come from the situation in the country, but still the faithful walk. Even before completing this year’s procession, they are already dreaming of the next.
The History of the Pochaev Cross Procession
When the Cross Procession goes forth — hell quails.
The Cross Procession is a remembrance of the voluntary journey of the Savior to Golgotha.
Support the Pilgrims
The cross-bearers are in need of prayerful and financial support.
We humbly ask for any possible assistance to cover the logistics: traveling from the eastern part of Ukraine to Kamianets-Podilskyi, as well as the expenses for a bus that will accompany the pilgrims on the procession, carrying their tents and other necessary belongings.