The Orthodox world celebrates today the great feast of the Protection of the Most Holy Mother of God

On October 14, Orthodox Christians around the world honor one of the greatest holidays – the Intercession of the Most Holy Mother of God and the Virgin Mary. Celebrated in a new style, it reminds of the miraculous intercession of the Virgin for praying people.

The roots of the holiday go back to the X century, when the inhabitants of Constantinople, besieged by enemies, in prayer turned to the Virgin. According to legend, during the all-night vigil in the church of St. Sophia, fool Andrew and his disciple Epiphanius saw the Most Holy Virgin, who with a veil (omophorion) in her hands prayed for people. The veil of the Virgin, enveloping those who pray, became a symbol of her protection and intercession before God.

Traditions and rites: Festive services begin in the evening of October 13 with the All-Night Vigil, and in the morning of October 14 solemn liturgies are held. On this day, Orthodox believers are encouraged to devote time to prayer, spiritual reflection and good deeds. It is believed that on the eve of the holiday, it is worth completing all important household chores, since October 14 does not favor heavy physical labor.

What not to do on the cover: On this bright day, you should avoid any “unpleasant” deeds: profanity, quarrels, drunkenness and intrigue. It is important to maintain peace and goodwill in the soul and relationships with others.

Folk signs about the coming winter: The feast of the Intercession traditionally accompanies many folk signs associated with the weather. It was on this day, as the ancestors believed, you could find out what the coming winter will be like:

Wind: An east or west wind portends a harsh, snowy winter. The south wind promises a milder winter.

The leaves on the trees: If the leaves have already fallen, the winter will be snowy and warm. If the leaves are still kept on the branches, it is worth waiting for severe frosts.

Snow: Snowfall on Pokrov portends snowy winter and on Dmitriev day (November 8). If there is no precipitation on this day, then there will likely be no snow until December.

The feast of the Intercession of the Most Holy Mother of God is not only a time of spiritual feats and good deeds, but also an opportunity to listen to folk wisdom associated with the coming natural cycles.