December 27 is the day when Orthodox believers remember the 70-year-old apostle Stephen, the first Christian martyr. This day is rich in church traditions, folk signs and prohibitions that have been passed down from generation to generation.
The Orthodox Church of Ukraine switched to the New Julian calendar in 2023. Archdeacon Stephen is commemorated in this style on December 27. He was known as a minister who distributed alms and supported the needy. Stephen became the first martyr, dying from stoning for preaching Christ.
According to the Julian calendar, this day commemorates the great martyrs Philemon, Apollonius, Arrian and Feotichus. For many believers, this is a continuation of the Christmas fast, accompanied by prayers and good deeds.
Signs of December 27
Traditionally, on St. Stephen's Day, attention was paid to nature in order to predict the weather:
- If frost appeared at night, expect snow.
- A warm day portends a hot summer.
- If the weather changes during the day, there will be warming.
The people also said: "Stepan has come - he is wearing a red coat", hinting at the approaching frost.
What not to do on December 27
The Church emphasizes the importance of spiritual purity on this day. Prohibited:
- Quarreling, cursing, envying or gossiping.
- Being lazy or refusing help.
- Throwing away bread crumbs is considered a bad omen. It is better to feed the crumbs to birds or livestock.
What can be done
- Pray to St. Stephen for strengthening faith, peace of mind and well-being.
- Treat loved ones with traditional dishes - honey gingerbread and small pies.
- Prepare "carols" and treat relatives, because refusing such treats can bring bad luck.
Angel Day is December 27
Name days are celebrated today:
- According to the new style: Antonina, Elena, David, Stepan, Fedir, Yakiv.
- According to the old style: Marko, Mitrofan, Oleksandr, Ivan, Yevhen, Mykhailo, Kateryna, Oleksiy, Grigory, Porfiry.
December 27 is the day when St. Stephen is honored, signs and traditions associated with the folk calendar are observed. This day encourages good deeds, spiritual cleansing and family unity.
