On Friday, July 19, Ukrainians commemorate the memory of Saint Macryna, the sister of Saint Basil the Great. This is a day with special energy, which has long been revered among the people under the name "Mokryny". It is shrouded in signs, traditions, and beliefs that have influenced the daily lives of Ukrainians.
What kind of holiday is this?
Saint Macrina lived in the 4th century in Cappadocia (modern Turkey) in a pious family. According to legend, an angel appeared to her mother and ordered her to name her daughter Thekla, in honor of the first martyr. However, in the family she was called Macrina, in honor of her grandmother.
After the death of her fiancé, Macrina decided to dedicate her life to God. She supported her family, including her younger brothers, Basil the Great and Gregory of Nyssa. Later, together with her mother, she went to a monastery, where she took monastic vows and became abbess.
In church tradition, Macrina is revered as a miracle worker. It is believed that she could heal illnesses, cast out evil spirits, and even influence the weather.
Traditions and customs of the day
The popular name of the holiday - Mokryna - is not in vain. According to signs, this day is often rainy. In ancient times, people believed that rain on July 19 was a good sign, promising health, a successful autumn and a bountiful harvest.
Today is considered a good sign:
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getting caught in the rain will bring good luck and improve your health;
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to give shelter to an animal, especially a cat - to well-being in the house;
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to do housework – cleaning, washing, ironing;
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Collect berries, herbs, and mushrooms – they have special power.
But it is considered a bad omen to chase away an animal, refuse to help someone in need, swear, or abuse alcohol. It was believed that on this day “evil spirits pour in,” so alcohol could turn into trouble.
You also shouldn't salt cucumbers or ferment cabbage - "they won't last," our ancestors said.
Saint Macrina is prayed to for healing, peace of mind, peace in the family, and a happy married life. She is also asked for help in raising children.
Other church commemorations on July 19:
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Venerable Dey of Constantinople, abbot;
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Venerable Paisius of Kiev-Pechersk;
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Prince Stefan and his mother Milica, rulers of Serbia;
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the discovery of the relics of St. Seraphim of Sarov.
Signs of July 19:
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if the day is clear, it will be dry for another six weeks;
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rainy day - bad weather will last a long time;
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What a day – what an autumn: dry – to Indian summer, rainy – to damp weather;
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Warm morning - there will be a bountiful harvest.
They also say that a dream seen on the night of July 19 is prophetic and promises good luck.
