On April 7, according to the new church calendar, Orthodox believers in Ukraine honor St. George, Confessor, Metropolitan of Mytilene. This day also falls on Holy Tuesday of Holy Week — one of the key days of preparation for Easter.
George of Mytilene chose the monastic path from his youth and became famous for his deep faith and ascetic life. During the times of iconoclasm, he was persecuted and received the name of the Confessor. Later, the saint headed the see in Mytilene on the island of Lesbos, where he distinguished himself with mercy and help to the needy. According to legend, he had the gift of healing. At the end of his life, he was exiled to Kherson, where he died, and on the day of his death, a bright star supposedly shone over the city.
In addition, on April 7, according to the new style, the martyr Calliope, the holy martyr Rufinus, the martyr Aquilina, and other saints are also honored.
At the same time, according to the Julian calendar, this day marks the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, one of the greatest Christian holidays.
This year, April 7 falls on Holy Tuesday of Holy Week. On this day, the Church remembers the last sermons of Jesus Christ in Jerusalem, including the parables of the ten virgins, the talents, and the Last Judgment. They remind us of spiritual responsibility and a person's readiness for trials.
Special services are held in churches, and believers continue to observe a strict fast.
In folk tradition, this day is known as Akulinin. It is considered a time of active preparation for Easter. It is customary to clean the house, wash, mend clothes, sort through things and get rid of unnecessary things. They also begin to buy food for the festive table.
However, there are a number of prohibitions. On this day, it is not recommended to quarrel, swear, gossip, be jealous, or refuse help to those in need. Loud entertainment, alcohol, and celebrations are also not approved.
In folk beliefs, special attention is paid to water bodies. It is believed that on this day you should not litter near rivers and lakes, as well as go to the water alone. According to beliefs, it is during this period that mermaids “wake up” and can be dangerous.
The signs of April 7 also predict the weather and harvest. If it rains and thunders in the morning, the weather will be clear for several days. Thunder without rain portends bad weather in the evening. A starry night promises a rich harvest of mushrooms and berries, and a large number of earrings on an aspen tree means a good harvest of peas.
