The church calendar for March 29 includes important events according to both the new style and the Julian calendar. On this day, Orthodox Christians honor the memory of Saint Mark, Bishop of Arefus, and also celebrate Father's Saturday of the fourth week of Great Lent, writes IZ.
Content
- What holiday is it according to the new church style?
- Church holiday in the old style
- Parent's Saturday
- Folk omens for March 29
- What not to do on March 29
- What is allowed today?
- Name day March 29
What holiday is it according to the new church style?
According to the New Julian calendar, which is followed by the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, March 29 is the feast day of Saint Mark, Bishop of Arefusia. He lived in the 4th century in Syria during the persecution of Christians under the reign of Emperor Julian the Apostate. Mark suffered for his faith, endured torture, and did not renounce Christianity, inspiring many to convert to the faith. He was later released and lived to a ripe old age.
Church holiday in the old style
According to the Julian calendar, on March 29, the martyr Sabinus and the holy martyr Alexander, Bishop of Rome, are commemorated.
Parent's Saturday
Regardless of the calendar, this day is celebrated as Father's (Commemorative) Saturday. Funeral services are held in churches, believers pray for the souls of deceased relatives, submit notes, and visit cemeteries. If it is not possible to go to church, it is allowed to pray at home – sincerely, even in your own words.
Folk omens for March 29
In the folk calendar, this is Birch Day, associated with the birch tree:
• if there is a lot of sap in the bank, there will be frost;
• the birch has blossomed – it will get warmer soon;
• thunder this day – to a cool summer;
• rain – to a good harvest of oats;
• Geese have arrived – spring will finally arrive soon.
Also, on March 29, birch sap is traditionally collected.
What not to do on March 29
On this day it is not recommended:
• to quarrel, to be offended, to swear;
• do needlework, laundry;
• saw or chop down trees;
• organize loud memorial feasts;
• leaving food or alcohol on graves.
What is allowed today?
On the day of memory of Saint Mark, people pray for spiritual endurance, protection from evil, and strengthening of faith. It is good to go to church, light a candle, and pray for the repose of loved ones. Those who observe the fast are allowed to eat hot dishes with oil today.
People believe that drinking birch sap on March 29 will bring health and longevity. Pregnant women are advised to place their hands on a birch tree for strength and support. A wish made under the tree is considered to be one that can come true.
Name day March 29
Name days are celebrated in the new style: Ivan, Cyril, Mark, Mikhail, Philip.
According to the old style: Ivan, Pavel, Julian, Omelyan, Trofim, Alexander, Roman, Denis.
As a reminder, we previously wrote about church, professional, and international celebrations on March 28.