On this day, according to the new calendar of the OCU, believers celebrate the day of the holy apostle and evangelist John the Theologian. He was one of the closest disciples of Jesus Christ and left behind the Gospel, three conciliar epistles, and the Book of Revelation. This holiday is popularly known as John the Theologian.
John was present at many key events in Christ's earthly life. It was to him that Jesus entrusted the care of his mother, the Virgin Mary, after the crucifixion. After the Savior's Ascension, the apostle John preached for many years, survived persecution, remained unharmed after poisoning and an attempt to boil him alive, and, according to legend, lived for over a hundred years.
At the same time, May 8 in Ukraine is a day of remembrance for those who died in World War II. Prayers are held in churches for the repose of millions of victims, including military personnel and civilians.
On this day, believers turn to John the Theologian with prayers for healing, resolving family conflicts, and help in life's difficulties. It was customary among the people to bake votive cakes and distribute them to the needy - such a gesture is considered a blessing. At the same time, there are also prohibitions: one should not quarrel, curse, refuse help, and also borrow bread and salt, which was considered a sign of poverty.
According to the old style, on May 8, the apostle and evangelist Mark is honored.
Ivan and Arseny, as well as Vasyl, Mark, and Sergiy, celebrate their name days today according to the Julian calendar.
Among folk signs, attention is paid to the morning sky, precipitation, and the appearance of bird cherry. In particular, a red sky in the morning was considered a harbinger of rain, and rain on this day promised a mushroom harvest. A bright sun in the west foreshadowed clear weather for several days.
