On Thursday, May 9, in the new style, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church celebrates one of the most revered holidays of spring - the day of transfer of the relics of St. Nicholas, better known in the people as Nikolai Vesnyany or Nicholas Teplny.
Nicholas the Wonderworker is one of the most beloved and most revered Christian saints. It is considered a defender of travelers, sailors, children, needy and unfairly convicted. During the earthly life, he was a bishop, giving enemies, rescuing hunger and poverty, and performing many miracles. According to church tradition, even his relics have healing power.
On this day, in 1087, the relics of the saint were moved from the measures of Lycius (modern Turkey) to the city of Bari in Italy to protect them from abuse from the Turks. This transfer was accompanied by numerous healing, and later the holiday became widespread throughout the Christian world.
What is asked by St. Nicholas
On the day of Nicholas, believers pray for protection, healing, harmony in the family and a good harvest. It is believed that the prayer for the saint on this day has a special power. People also holy water that were sprinkled with homes, cattle and fields.
Also, Nicholas must do a good job - to help your neighbor, share with the needy or reconcile the cooked.
That cannot be done on Nicholas Spring
Although there are no church prohibitions on this day, people are advised to refrain from quarrels, wicked, envy and idleness. It is also not recommended to borrow money, place fences and cut your hair. According to the belief, it is not necessary to shake the windows in the afternoon - they say, Nicholas can look to see if you need help.
Birthday on May 9
On this day, the angel is celebrated by all Nicholas, as well as Sergiy and Denis. In the old style - Vasily, Ivan, Petra and Stepan.
Folk signs
People believe that with Nicholas spring comes true warmth:
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cold weather - warming will only be on the Trinity;
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Swelling of frogs - to a good harvest of oats;
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Viburnum blooms - it's time to start a bathing season;
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Rain on Nicholas - summer will be wet and yielding.
Nicholas Spring is the day of strength, good deeds and sincere prayer. Many Ukrainians still believe that it is this day that has a special energy and is able to change the fate of the believing one.
