December 16 is a special date both in the church and in the folk calendar. On this day, according to a new style, the holy prophet Haggai, one of the twelve minor prophets, is honored, and among the people it is Haggai's day, which is associated with winter signs and traditions.
A church holiday in a new style
According to the New Julian calendar, which the Orthodox Church of Ukraine began to use in 2023, December 16 commemorates the holy prophet Haggai.
Haggai lived more than 500 years before Christ. He was one of the last Old Testament prophets who called the people to rebuild the Jerusalem temple after returning from the Babylonian captivity. Haggai's speeches inspired the people to complete the construction of the second temple, which, according to his prophecies, was to surpass the grandeur of the previous one.
The prophet Haggai is also known as a protector of the hardworking and a mentor who helps people find the right path in life.
A holiday in the old style
For those who follow the Julian calendar, December 16 is the day of commemoration of St. John the Silent, Bishop of Colony. He became famous for his devotion to serving God and a special gift of silence, which helped him avoid conflicts and maintain spiritual peace.
Folk signs on December 16
- If the snowbirds are actively chirping , there will be a thaw.
- The cat is looking for a warm place - expect frost.
- There is a lot of frost on the trees - the holidays will be snowy.
- If a star fell at night, it portends cold weather.
This day is also called the Agei winter fortune teller because the weather on December 16 judged the nature of the winter holidays.
What can be done on December 16
Saint Haggai is considered the patron saint of babies, so on this day you should pray for the health and well-being of children, as well as ask the saint to preserve faith, get rid of laziness or bad habits. The people believed that he helps those who work, so it is desirable to spend the day in labor.
What not to do on December 16
- Quarrel and conflict. The Church always condemns conflicts, slander and envy.
- Be lazy. It was believed that Saint Haggai did not like idlers.
- To talk across the threshold. Folk omens say that this can lead to a quarrel.
- Breaking the Christmas fast. On this day, it is important to observe fasting restrictions in food.
Name day on December 16
According to the new calendar, the day of the angel is celebrated by Sofia, Peter, Ilya, Mykola, Makar, Arkady, Volodymyr, Pavlo, Oleksandr.
According to the old style - Andrii, Varvara, George, Ivan, Mykola, Sava, Fedir, Kirilo.
