On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, believers honor the memory of Saint Leo the Great, Pope of Rome. This day is also celebrated as Pluto Day, International Battery Day, and the humorous Thumb Appreciation Day. There are 317 days left until the New Year. Ukraine is in its 1,455th day of full-scale war.
What church holiday is February 18?
According to the new church calendar, on this day, Orthodox Christians remember Leo I the Great , the Pope of Rome, who played an important role in the formation of Christian theology.
The saint was born around 390, probably in Tuscany. Under Pope Celestine I he held the position of archdeacon of the Roman Church. On September 21, 440, after the death of Sixtus III, he was elected bishop of Rome.
Leo's pontificate came during a period of profound theological controversy. In 449 he wrote the Tomos to Flavian, in which he expounded the doctrine of the two natures of Jesus Christ, divine and human, united in one Person. This formulation was solemnly read at the Council of Chalcedon in 451 and became the basis of Christian dogma.
Leo the Great is also known for his diplomatic mission: in 452 he met with the Hunnic leader Attila , convincing him to retreat from Rome. The saint died on November 10, 461, and was buried in St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.
Pluto Day
Pluto, then the ninth planet in the Solar System, was discovered Clyde Tombaugh on February 18, 1930.
International Battery Day
This date is dedicated to the birthday of the Italian physicist Alessandro Volta , who in 1800 created the first chemical battery - the "volt pile". The unit of electrical voltage is named in his honor - the volt. The day also reminds us of the need to properly dispose of batteries due to their impact on the environment.
Thumb Appreciation Day
The unofficial holiday is dedicated to a human anatomical feature — the ability to oppose the thumb to the others. It is this feature that allows us to use tools, write, and work with modern gadgets.
Folk omens for February 18
If the frost intensifies in the morning, winter will linger.
The north wind portends further frosts.
Birds stay closer to homes - wait for the cold weather.
What not to do
According to folk beliefs, on this day you should not fall into despair, be sad, or be lazy. They also advised avoiding dark clothing.
What can be done?
Saint Leo is addressed with prayers for spiritual support, strength, and healing.
Angel Day February 18
Anton, Theodosius, Mikhail, Alexandra, Vasilyna, and Agatha celebrate their name day. It is believed that on this day a special spiritual connection is established between a person and their heavenly patron.
