On February 9, Orthodox believers celebrate several important church events. According to the new church calendar in Ukraine, they commemorate the martyr Nicephorus of Antioch and the Monk Pancratius, the hermit of Kyiv-Pechersk. This day is also the first preparatory Sunday for Great Lent — the Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee.
Church events on February 9 in the new style
- Martyr Nicephorus of Antioch
Known for his example of self-sacrifice, Saint Nicephorus lived in Antioch in the 3rd century. He sacrificed his life for a friend who had renounced Christianity during persecution. His act became a symbol of forgiveness, humility, and sincere faith. - Venerable Pankratius of Kiev-Pechersk
Saint Pankratius became famous for his gift of healing through prayers, fasting, and anointing. His relics are kept in the Far Caves of the Kiev-Pechersk Lavra. Today, believers pray to the saint for health and healing. - Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee
This Sunday marks the beginning of the four weeks of preparation for Great Lent. In churches, a parable is read about two men: a Pharisee who boasted about his virtues and a publican who sincerely repented. The parable emphasizes the importance of humility and sincerity in faith.
Signs for February 9
- Warm weather - until the next cold snap.
- Red sunset - expect snowfall.
- If it's freezing, there won't be any snow anytime soon.
- Noise in the forest - to warming.
- Snow sticking to trees is a sign of imminent warmth.
People believed that from this day on, winter begins to weaken, and spring gradually comes into its own.
What not to do on February 9
On church holidays you should not:
- Lying, swearing, insulting others, or refusing help.
- Starting new important things - folk signs warn of failure.
- Being lazy is considered a sin.
What can be done?
- Do housework, clean, do laundry.
- Ask for forgiveness and forgive offenders.
- Pray to Saints Nicephorus and Pancratius for health, reconciliation, and wisdom.
- Start treatment - this day promises to be successful.
Name day February 9
Angel Day is celebrated by the owners of the following names:
- According to the new style: Vasily, Gennady, Ivan, Innocent, Nicephorus, Pankratius, Peter.
- According to the old style: Peter, Ivan, Dmitry.
February 9 is a day that calls for humility, sincerity in faith, forgiveness, and preparation for Lent. Observing the traditions of this date can bring peace of mind and prosperity to the home.
