What Not to Do on St. Demetrios Day, October 26
Who is St. Demetrios?
St. Demetrios is a highly venerated saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church. He was a Roman soldier who lived in the 3rd century AD. Demetrios was known for his piety, courage, and military prowess. He was martyred for his faith during the reign of Emperor Galerius. St. Demetrios is the patron saint of Thessaloniki, Greece, and is also venerated in other parts of the world.
St. Demetrios Day Traditions
St. Demetrios Day is celebrated on October 26th. On this day, Orthodox Christians attend church services, pray to St. Demetrios, and participate in other traditional activities. Some of the most common traditions associated with St. Demetrios Day include:
- Going to church: Orthodox Christians typically attend church services on St. Demetrios Day. During these services, they pray to St. Demetrios and ask for his intercession.
- Praying to St. Demetrios: In addition to attending church services, Orthodox Christians often pray to St. Demetrios on his feast day. They pray for his protection, guidance, and healing.
- Eating traditional foods: On St. Demetrios Day, many Orthodox Christians eat traditional foods such as koliva (a wheat dish with honey and nuts), and baklava (a sweet pastry).
Things Not to Do on St. Demetrios Day
While there are many things that Orthodox Christians do on St. Demetrios Day, there are also some things that they should avoid doing. These include:
- Working: It is considered disrespectful to work on St. Demetrios Day. Orthodox Christians believe that they should focus on their spiritual life on this day.
- Arguing or fighting: St. Demetrios is a saint of peace. Orthodox Christians should avoid arguing or fighting on his feast day.
- Getting drunk: Drinking alcohol is not appropriate on St. Demetrios Day. Orthodox Christians should focus on their spiritual life on this day.
Conclusion
St. Demetrios Day is an important праздник in the Orthodox Christian Church. On this day, Orthodox Christians celebrate the life and martyrdom of St. Demetrios. They attend church services, pray to St. Demetrios, and participate in other traditional activities. There are also some things that Orthodox Christians should avoid doing on St. Demetrios Day, such as working, arguing or fighting, and getting drunk.