Each year on the eve of the Great Lent all Christians ask and give forgiveness. The tradition has it that after the evening church service the families gather together and the younger members ask the elderly for forgiveness. This ancient tradition is still alive, although many Bulgarian families practice it on the Internet only due to the long distances that separate the Bulgarian emigrants abroad from their relatives in Bulgaria. Forgiveness Day (also known as Proshka in Bulgaria), strengthens the ties with relatives and beloved ones and helps families remain strong and united. According to the Church, the Great Lent is the most important lent in the year, because it prepares the souls of the believers for the brightest holiday-Easter (Pascha). That is why forgiveness is seen as the most important element in spiritual purification. The table on Cheese-fare Sunday consists of banitsa (cheese pastry), boiled eggs, fried fish, as well as all types of dairy food. Dairy and animal products are allowed on this day for the last time before the Great Lent that lasts for seven weeks.