On Wednesday, April 3, 2025, the Orthodox Church of Ukraine celebrates the day of the memory of the Reverend Nikita the Confessor and the icon of the Mother of God "The Invancing Blossom". According to the old style (Julian calendar), this day is remembered by St. Cyril Katan and St. Fom of Constantinople.
Nikita confessor is life and spiritual heritage
Nikita the confessor lived in the VIII -IX centuries, was born in Caesarea of Win (in the territory of modern Turkey). From a young age he devoted himself to serving God, later became a monk, and then - the abbot of the Midician monastery.
He was known as a miracle worker: he healed the sick with prayers, helped to recover mentally ill, returned the language to the deaf. He was persecuted for his speeches against iconoclasm, he was thrown into prisons, but he remained adamant in faith.
His relics are considered miraculous, and the saint is the patron saint of children, sick and disadvantaged.
The icon of "Inflamed Blossom" is a symbol of purity and hope
This image of the Mother of God is considered one of the most gentle and symbolic in the Orthodox tradition. The icon was written in the XVI - XVII centuries on Athos, and its original is now stored in the Transfiguration Monastery in Greece.
The icon of the Virgin is often depicted with a white lily - a symbol of reaping, or among the flowers that decorate her clothes and the throne. The image is considered feminine, but prayers are presented to it by anyone who seeks spiritual support, healing, family assistance or internal rest.
Signs on April 3 - Folk Beliefs
In the people this holiday was called Nikitin Day. Many weather signs were associated with it:
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If it rains today - spring will be protracted and cold.
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Sunny weather - until hot summer and rich harvest.
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A lot of birch juice - summer will be rainy.
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The first thunder is to change the weather.
It was also believed that this day was waking up water - the spirit of reservoirs, which should not be disturbed.
That cannot be done on April 3
Since the Lent continues, believers should refrain from fun, meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. Hot food without oil is allowed.
The church urges to avoid sins: not to swear, not to abuse alcohol, not to offend their neighbor, not to gossip and not to despair.
According to folk beliefs, it is impossible to make noise near the reservoirs, so as not to angry the water. Also, do not wash, knit, sew or do hard physical labor.
What can be done
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To pray in front of the icon "Invincial blossom" - about healing, inner peace, women's health, family well -being.
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Visit the church or read the Akathist at home.
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According to the belief, to throw a handful of porridge or a piece of bread into the river or pond - as "treating" for water.
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Wash with water, and pour the residues under the tree - it is considered that it adds strength and health.
Birthday April 3
The new style of the birthday is celebrated today: Nikita, Xenia, Julia, Marina, Albina.
Old style: Cyril, Thomas, Filimon, Jacob.
