On July 3, believers commemorate Saint Anatoly, Patriarch of Constantinople, one of the most revered Orthodox hierarchs of the 4th century. In the folk calendar, the date is also known as Poppy Day, and many beliefs and customs are associated with it.
Saint Anatoliy became famous as a fighter for the purity of the faith. At a time when the emperor and part of the clergy were inclined to heresy, he stood up in defense of the true doctrine of the two natures of Christ - human and divine. It was on his initiative that the Council of Chalcedon was convened, where the Church testified to the immutability of this dogma.
In church tradition, this day is dedicated to prayer for the healing of body and soul. People turn to Saint Anatoly with a request for strengthening faith, health, and spiritual balance. And on this day, those who bear the name Anatoly are especially honored - the saint is considered their heavenly patron.
People associate July 3 with the poppy plant - hence the name "Poppy Day". According to an ancient tradition, poppy seeds were consecrated to protect the home from evil spirits. It was believed that such a poppy brings peace to the family, protects against evil and brings prosperity. It was kept at home, sprinkled on the thresholds of homes, and also placed near the cradle of a child.
Despite the ritual, the day was considered unfavorable for important matters. Old beliefs warn: you should not plant anything, plan for the future, or take on serious work - nothing good will come of it. They also advised against borrowing money - you can lose more than you give. It is also forbidden to quarrel, insult your neighbors, and refuse help to those who need it.
The nature of this day, as our ancestors believed, can tell you what the week will be like. If there are a lot of midges and mosquitoes in the morning, you should prepare for the heat. If spiders are actively weaving webs, this is a good sign, sunny weather is ahead. And if the water in the well begins to recede, you should expect a prolonged heat wave.
Thus, July 3 combines church veneration for Saint Anatoly and a deep folk tradition that still remains alive in the customs of Ukrainians.
