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Mitrofanov Day: What can and cannot be done on this holiday - note for Orthodox Christians
20.08.2024 00:05
Today, Orthodox believers celebrate the discovery of the relics of Saint Mitrofan. In addition, the Dormition Fast continues during this period.
Among the people, this celebration is called Mitrofan's Day.
In Rus', on this day it was customary to complete gardening chores.
It was believed that August 20 was the day that summer ended and autumn began.
Saint Mitrofan was born in 1623 into a family of a clergyman. He was originally given the name Mikhail at birth.
Until his maturity, Michael lived an ordinary secular life. He became engaged to a woman and gave birth to a wife, but even then he was distinguished by his good-natured character.
Widowed at the age of 40, Mikhail was baptized and given the name Mitrofan. He devoted himself entirely to religion and the dissemination of Christian teachings.
Thanks to the saint, a temple was erected in honor of the Not-Made-by-Hands Image of the All-Merciful Savior. Mitrofan also participated in the construction of other churches.
The saint died peacefully in his bed at an advanced age.
What you can't do on Mitrofan's Day
On this day, many people followed certain rules:
- did not harm birds, especially storks;
- did not shout at animals, did not argue with loved ones;
- did not exhaust themselves with hard work.
It was on August 20 that it was considered a grave sin to commit ungodly acts, namely, to cut one's hair. Otherwise, according to beliefs, one could bring upon oneself problems with luck.
What can you do on Mitrofanov's Day
Today it is recommended to go raspberry picking.
Afterwards, you need to prepare raspberry pie or jam.
It is also recommended to give friends a toy in the form of a stork on this day.
