What can and cannot be done on Cornelius Day: folk traditions and bans on September 26

In folk tradition, Cornelius Day is associated with the completion of autumn fieldwork and special rules of behavior. The name of the holiday was correlated with the word “root”, so on September 26 they tried to finish harvesting root crops – turnips, carrots, beets, potatoes: it was believed that the harvest not harvested in time loses strength.

Among the good deeds encouraged on this day, a special place was occupied by helping those in need. Since Cornelius’ life emphasizes his mercy, it was customary to give alms on this day, to help the poor and sick. It was also believed that prayer for family and friends on this day has a special power and contributes to family well-being. The hostesses were engaged in blanks for the winter - salted cabbage, marinated vegetables: they believed that the stocks made on this day would be well stored.

There were also strict prohibitions. Since the day falls on the eve of the Exaltation of the Cross, it was not recommended to start big business, make important deals or make major changes - it was believed that such undertakings would not bear fruit. Arguments and scolding on the day of the memory of the pious and peace-loving saint were considered especially sinful and could lead to prolonged enmity. It was impossible to brag about the harvest: according to legend, it could “take away” luck and lead to losses in the household. In addition, according to the church charter, there is no marriage on this day.

Folk signs complemented the picture of the day: rain on Cornelius foreshadowed a warm spring, thunder - a long and cold winter, and low-flying birds - a rapid cold snap. If the leaves on the birch were still green, they waited for late winter, and the chickens, who sat on the roost early, promised fast snow. Red sunset was considered a harbinger of windy weather.