On Tuesday, April 8, according to the new church calendar, Orthodox Christians commemorate the holy apostle Rodion and other disciples from among the 70 whom Jesus Christ chose to spread his faith, writes IZ. This day is filled with spiritual meaning, and is also closely intertwined with folk customs and signs. Among the important aspects are the observance of certain prohibitions, prayers, and name days.
Content
- What holiday is April 8 according to the New Julian style?
- Church holiday in the old style
- Folk signs for April 8: what Rodion the Icebreaker's day promises
- Prohibitions on April 8: what not to do
- What is allowed and desirable to do on April 8
- Name day on April 8
What holiday is April 8 according to the New Julian style?
In the church calendar, this date is dedicated to the holy apostles Rodion, Agave, Rufus, Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, and other preachers who carried the word of Christ after His resurrection. All of them were among the seventy apostles who were commissioned to continue the work of the Savior.
Saint Rodion, a relative of the Apostle Paul, was one of those who repeatedly accompanied him on his missionary journeys. In the city of Patara (now Turkey), Rodion was ordained a bishop. There he baptized many, but also suffered cruel persecution. According to tradition, after the death of the Apostle Peter, Rodion also suffered a martyr's death.
Saint Agabus was distinguished by the gift of prophecy: he foresaw the famine that came during the reign of Emperor Claudius and the arrest of Paul in Jerusalem. The other apostles also became victims of persecution for their faith – each of them served in different parts of the then world and ended their lives as a martyr.
Church holiday in the old style
Those who continue to live according to the Julian calendar, on April 8, honor the Cathedral of the Archangel Gabriel — one of the main heavenly messengers who brought the news of the birth of Jesus to the Virgin Mary.
Folk signs for April 8: what Rodion the Icebreaker's day promises
In folk tradition, this day is known as Rodion Ledolom – it is during this period that the ice begins to break and melt in the spring. People watched the weather to make predictions for the summer:
- if the day turned out to be sunny, you should expect a fruitful summer;
- cloudy weather indicates frequent rains;
- rain hints at a bountiful harvest of grain;
- A warm evening and a peaceful night are harbingers of a dry, hot summer.
It was also believed that washing with cold water on this day helps to maintain youth and a healthy appearance.
Prohibitions on April 8: what not to do
This day falls during the period of Great Lent, so believers should refrain from excesses not only in food, but also in words and actions. It is forbidden:
- to swear, gossip, spread insults;
- to show anger and indifference;
- deny help to those who need it.
From the point of view of folk beliefs, on Rodion's day it is not recommended to:
- to clean the house;
- to go fishing or hunting;
- make big plans – their implementation may be unsuccessful.
What is allowed and desirable to do on April 8
This day is favorable for reconciliation and good deeds. Believers turn to Saint Rodion and the apostles in prayers for strengthening faith, peace of mind, and right decisions.
In addition to prayers, it is advisable to:
- to give alms;
- to help those who find themselves in difficult life circumstances;
- to renew friendships or resolve conflicts.
In ancient times, it was on April 8 that the first spring plowing began – a symbol of the beginning of a new life cycle.
Name day on April 8
On this day, everyone who bears the names:
According to the new style – Rodion, Susanna, Martha, Niphon.
According to the old style – Alla, Anna, Vasyl, Gavriil, Larisa, Paraska, Stepan.