On March 21, according to the new church calendar, Saint Cyril, Bishop of Catania, and Saint Thomas, Patriarch of Constantinople, are honored, IZ writes. This holiday is also called Thomas' Day. It is popularly associated with numerous signs and prohibitions that should not be violated on this day.
Content
- Church holiday in the new style
- Church holiday in the old style
- Signs for March 21
- Prohibitions and tips for March 21
- What to do on March 21
- Name Day March 21
Church holiday in the new style
March 21 is the day of memory of Saint Cyril and Saint Thomas. Saint Cyril was born in Antioch in the 1st century and was a disciple of the Apostle Peter. He preached Christianity together with the Apostle, and after arriving in Sicily he was appointed bishop of the city of Catania. Cyril became famous for his miracles, in particular, for turning bitter water into drinkable water through prayer, which contributed to the conversion of pagans to Christianity. He died in great old age, leaving behind a memory of himself as a pious and wise mentor.
Saint Thomas was the Patriarch of Constantinople in the 6th-7th centuries. In his activities he showed wisdom and patience, especially during difficult times for Byzantium. Patriarch Thomas experienced a difficult prediction when he prophesied misfortunes for the empire and the church. His death occurred in 610, and soon after that Byzantium faced numerous difficulties.
Church holiday in the old style
On March 21, according to the Julian calendar, the Venerable Theophylact, Confessor, and the Great Martyr Theodore Tyrone are commemorated. This day is also accompanied by certain prohibitions and restrictions, which we will discuss in detail.
Signs for March 21
The people also celebrate Fomin Day on March 21, and this day is accompanied by numerous signs related to the weather and harvest:
- If thunder rumbles, it promises a fruitful year.
- If the birch produces a lot of sap, it is a rainy summer.
- The appearance of mosquitoes indicates rapid warming.
- Clear sky – to rain.
These signs are folk predictions that help determine the weather for the coming summer.
Prohibitions and tips for March 21
According to church traditions, this day should be spent in repentance and caution. One should not gossip, boast, or be envious. The Church forbids lies, laziness, and greed. Lent is in full swing, so today is a time for strict fasting and spiritual cleansing. During fasting, it is important to monitor one's thoughts and actions, not just food.
What to do on March 21
This day promotes cleansing and healing. Folk omens advise to do cleaning, which symbolizes getting rid of diseases. It is also good to make peace with those with whom you had a quarrel, as this helps to cleanse the soul.
Name Day March 21
Cyril, Thomas, Philemon, and James celebrate their name days. According to the old style, it is Angel Day for Athanasius, Vladimir, and Ivan.
We remind you that we previously wrote about the day of remembrance of Svetlana (Photiny) Samaritan and other important traditions on March 20.