On March 26, Orthodox believers honor the Cathedral of the Archangel Gabriel, one of the main heavenly messengers. This holiday is popularly known as Gabriel the Herald and is closely connected with the events of the Annunciation, as it was the archangel Gabriel who brought the news of the birth of Jesus Christ to the Virgin Mary.
According to the new church calendar, this holiday falls on March 26, while according to the old style it will be celebrated on April 8. Archangel Gabriel in the Christian tradition is considered a messenger of God, who not only announced the birth of the Savior, but also accompanied the Virgin Mary throughout her life, warned of dangers and helped save the baby.
On this day, believers turn to the archangel with prayers for protection, good news, and solutions to difficult life situations. According to popular beliefs, sincere prayer on this day has special power.
Our ancestors tried to wake up before sunrise on Gabriel the Annunciation, pray, and visit the temple. There was also a belief: if you put water outside in the evening, and wash yourself with it and drink it in the morning, it will help get rid of diseases.
The Church calls on people to avoid negativity on this day - not to quarrel, not to offend others, not to lie, and not to be jealous. It is believed that words have special power, so any bad wishes can turn against a person.
According to folk signs, on March 26, you should not start new business, conclude deals, or make large purchases - such actions may not bring the expected result. It is also not recommended to talk about money, so as not to cause financial difficulties.
Natural phenomena on this day also have significance. If frosts hit, a good harvest is expected, but the cold weather will linger. A warm and sunny day promises a bountiful harvest of fruit, and rain portends a mushroom summer. If the willow has bloomed, beekeepers consider this a signal to put bees in the apiary.
