Church holiday October 23, 2026: Evlampiy Winter Indicator - signs, traditions and prohibitions

Who does the church remember

Saints Eulampius and Eulampius lived at the beginning of the fourth century in Nicomedia (in present-day Turkey) and were brother and sister. During the persecution of Christians under the emperor Maximian, Eulampius saw a decree on the execution of believers on the city gate and openly indignant at the actions of the ruler. The young man was arrested and tortured, but he refused to renounce his faith. According to legend, when he was brought to a pagan temple, the statue of the god Mars collapsed through his prayer.

Sister Eulampia, having learned of her brother’s sufferings, also confessed the Christian faith. Both martyrs were executed around 303-311. The church commemorates them on October 23.

The Monk Ambrose of Optina (1812-1891) was one of the most revered Russian elders, who became famous for his gift of vision and healing. He conducted extensive correspondence with the laity, supported the needy and became the prototype of Elder Zosima in Dostoevsky’s novel The Brothers Karamazov. Canonized in 1988.

Folk traditions

In Russia, Evlampiy-Winter indicator was considered the day when nature finally turns to winter. He was told what the weather would be like in the coming months.

From October 23, peasants began to prepare for the cold: insulated houses, sealed gaps, harvested firewood. Also on this day it was customary to wash and clean dishes, put in order kitchen utensils - it was believed that this brings prosperity to the house.

Another tradition is to watch the month. By its position and color guessed about winter and spring.

Notes on October 23

If the horns of the month point to the north, winter will be early and severe.

The moon on the south side - for a warm and mild winter.

If the month is bright and clean, wait for clear and cold days.

A strong wind on this day - to windy and snowy winter.

In the morning, fog is for a good harvest next year.

If snow falls on Eulampia, winter will be established early.

Thunder on this day - for a short and warm autumn.

What can and cannot be done

You can:

To restore cleanliness and order in the house, wash dishes and kitchen utensils.

Insulate the house, prepare it for the cold.

To pray to Saints Eulampius and Eulampia for protection from diseases and troubles.

Help those in need and take care of loved ones.

You can't:

Washing and leaving dirty dishes overnight was thought to bring poverty.

Laziness and postponing household chores.

Arguing and swearing - conflicts on this day can permanently spoil the relationship.

To brag about your achievements is to lose luck.

Refuse to help the petitioner.

Prayer to the holy martyr n

Believers turn to Saints Eulampius and Eulampia with requests for protection from ills, diseases and ill-wishers, as well as for help in difficult life situations. Saint Ambrose of Optina is prayed for peace of mind, conflict resolution and guidance on the right path.