Ivan the Theologian: Church holiday October 9, 2026, signs, traditions and prohibitions

Who is John the Theologian

John was the son of a Galilean fisherman Zebedee and, together with his brother Jacob, was one of the first whom Christ called to follow. He was one of the three closest disciples: it was John who sat next to the Savior at the Last Supper and stayed at the Cross when the others fled.

After the Assumption of the Virgin, he preached in Asia Minor, was exiled to the island of Patmos, where he wrote the book of Revelation - Apocalypse. He later returned to Ephesus, where he wrote his Gospel and three epistles. John is the only one of the twelve apostles who died a natural death after living more than a hundred years.

Traditions on Ivan the Theologian

On this day in the morning, the faithful went to the temple - they prayed to the apostle for the protection of those on the road, for harmony in the family and healing from diseases.

The peasants tried to finish everything before lunch. To work in the afternoon was considered a sin - believed that hard work in the afternoon will bring "forty troubles".

The hostess baked cakes, which were treated to households, guests and travelers. Sharing pastries with a wanderer was considered a good sign - fortunately and well-being.

In the old days on this day, the stove was drowned and the fire was maintained - it was believed that this would bring warmth and comfort to the house, help keep peace in the family for the whole year.

The night from 9 to 10 October was considered the time of prophetic dreams. If you dreamed of a deceased relative, his words or appearance could be a clue about the future.

Notes as of 9 October 2026

The first snow - winter will come in exactly 40 days.

Wet snow and rain - in January there will be three strong thaws.

Rain all day - wet weather will last for another three weeks.

Warm and sunny weather - June next year will be cold and rainy.

Pink sunset to strong wind.

Brightly twinkling stars - for good weather, dim - for rain or snow.

What not to do on October 9th

Fighting and swearing – conflicts started on this day can drag on and destroy relationships.

Working after lunch was thought to bring a series of adversity.

To refuse help - the one who turns away from the needy, predicted to spend the whole year with an outstretched hand.

It is impossible to chase away stray cats or scare birds, it promised poverty and hunger in winter.

Playing a wedding - the marriage concluded on October 9, according to signs, will be short-lived and unhappy.

There are onions and garlic – it was believed that these products can cause insomnia or bad dreams.

Wearing old or uncomfortable shoes to avoid attracting a streak of failure.

Stop at intersections – these places were considered dangerous, associated with evil spirits.