Saint Catherine's Day: What to Do on December 7 0 5

On December 7, Orthodox churches honor the great martyr Catherine of Alexandria. From her life story, it is known that she was a very educated and pious young woman.

A meeting with a Syrian monk radically changed the life of the young pagan, who, despite her relatives' resistance, accepted baptism. According to legends, after this sacrament, Christ appeared to her in a dream, giving her a ring that became her symbol. There is also another version that this ring was given to her by the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The life story recounts the tragic fate of Catherine. According to legend, she came to a pagan temple during a sacrifice, where Emperor Maximin, known for his cruelty, was present.

The brave Christian woman called on him to renounce idols and accept Orthodoxy. Captivated by the girl's beauty, the ruler tried to persuade her to return to paganism. After receiving a refusal, he ordered Catherine to be arrested, sent to prison, and tortured.

According to legends, one of the torture instruments was destroyed by an angel. Maximin's wife, seeing this miracle, renounced the idols and accepted Christianity. Both were executed by the emperor's order.

Folk Calendar: Catherine Sanitsa

The holiday dedicated to the holy great martyr Catherine was called "Catherine's Day," "Catherine Sanitsa," "Catherine the Bride-Helper." In ancient times, people rode on sleds during this time. The sledding paths were already well-trodden, and there were milestones everywhere indicating the way, so one could set off without fear of getting lost.

The initiators of sledding were newlyweds who had their wedding in the fall. They did not ride alone — a procession of relatives followed them. No noisy celebrations were held, as this was the time of the Christmas fast, but they did not deny themselves joy. In families without large sleds, they would ride down hills.

In ancient times, people entertained themselves by playing snowballs and making snowmen. In some regions of our country, such traditions have survived to this day.

Catherine Sanitsa: What Can Be Done

On Saint Catherine's Day, our ancestors would go to church in the morning. They went as whole families: with children and elderly parents. It was believed that the holy great martyr helps all who are in need.

Elderly people prayed for health, the middle generation sought support in family relationships and child-rearing, while the youth turned to the saint for prayers about their betrothed. Unmarried young men asked the saint to grant them a good life partner.

Unmarried girls shared their dreams in prayers. Each of them wanted to meet a worthy person who could be a support and help. On the night of Catherine Sanitsa, young women would predict their future husbands. The "tool" for divination was a pre-prepared apple branch, which they placed under their pillow, making a wish to see their future husband in a dream.

Catherine Sanitsa: Folk Omens

By the weather on Catherine Sanitsa, one can predict what the winter will be like. If the day is clear, long frosts are expected ahead. If, however, it is muddy and foggy in the morning, the cold will linger.

What Not to Do on Catherine Sanitsa

Since the feast of Saint Catherine coincides with the Christmas fast, on December 7 (November 24 in the old style), it is forbidden to consume animal products, including milk and eggs.

Our ancestors believed that on Catherine Sanitsa, one should not quarrel, engage in heavy physical labor, clean the house, or do handicrafts. They also believed that one should not linger in visits and must return home before dark.