The Feast of the Immaculate Conception

The feast is celebrated in both Catholic parishes in Sofia – the Cathedral of the Dormition (follows the Eastern rite) and the Cathedral of St Joseph (follows the Latin rite). It is the first major feast of the Advent season - a time of waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus. All Catholics must attend Mass on this feast day and they are allowed to take leave of absence from work in order to do so. They also pray the Holy Rosary and believe that they will be heard by the Virgin Mary.