On March 31, Orthodox churches commemorate Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, who lived in the 4th century. This day in the folk calendar is called Kirill's Day and also has the saying “Cyril – Take the Sled.” In the past, during this time, people riding on sleds risked not only damaging the runners as the snow had almost melted but also harming their health. Therefore, they tried to stay close to home. There were also other omens.
On March 31, Orthodox Christians pay tribute to Archbishop Cyril of Jerusalem, who lived in the 4th century. Little is known about the saint, but the surviving texts describe him as a pious Christian.
Born into a family that followed the teachings of Jesus Christ, he took monastic vows early. The clergy noticed his frequent fasting, diligent prayers, and love from the parishioners. Soon, he was appointed presbyter and then Archbishop of Jerusalem.
As archbishop, he cared for the city's inhabitants. During a famine, he sold his possessions to buy bread for the townspeople. However, his fight against heresy displeased the secular authorities, and Cyril was exiled three times. He was able to return to his ministry only during the reign of Theodosius the Great – the last Christian emperor of the unified Roman state.
Folk Calendar: Cyril – Take the Sled
The holiday dedicated to Archbishop Cyril of Jerusalem was called Kirill's Day or simply Cyril in Russia. There is also an unusual folk name “Cyril – Take the Sled,” which is explained quite simply.
By March 31, the snow usually had melted, making it impossible to ride on sleds. Even in places where there was still snow cover, it was unsafe. There was a threat not only to the sleds but also to life. Therefore, peasants dedicated this day to household chores, preparing for the upcoming planting season.
Cyril – Take the Sled: What Can Be Done
The morning of Kirill's Day began with a visit to the church. Lighting candles, people gratefully remembered the archbishop who dedicated his life to serving Jesus Christ. They asked the saint for help in matters related to household, health, child-rearing, and future harvests.
Thinking about the future harvest, people began to “make agreements” with the land. They appeased nature with praises, songs, and round dances. The earth did not remain in debt. At this time, one could find birch sap and coltsfoot in the forest.
This plant, known for its healing properties, was used to preserve youth and beauty. A good omen on Kirill's Day was washing one's face with an infusion of coltsfoot. Young women believed that after such a procedure, they would not lack suitors.
Healers claimed that Kirill's Day was the perfect time to rid oneself of ailments. They said that if treatment began on this day, health would soon improve, and the illness would recede.
On Kirill's Day, housewives engaged in spring cleaning. It was believed that at this time, the house spirit awakens, who cannot tolerate disorder, so corners were thoroughly cleaned, dust was wiped, and floors were washed.
Kirill's Day: Folk Omens
The omens of this holiday are mainly related to nature. By this time, it was coming to life and tuning into a spring mood. Elders would go into the forest to check if the hazel trees were covered with catkins. If they found them, they rejoiced, as it meant that there would be no serious frosts.
If the sound of mosquitoes was heard in the air, people understood that warm days with sunshine were coming soon. However, if there were many gnats in the air, they knew that mushrooms would not be gathered in summer – it would be time to mow. The main thing was to have enough strength.
Our ancestors felt sad if the snow on Kirill's Day was loose, as it foretold a poor harvest. However, they rejoiced if they saw swans, which bring warmth. They also rejoiced at the sight of rooks – they were among the first to arrive. “Saw a rook – greet spring,” “Rook on the hill – spring at the door,” they used to say.
Kirill's Day: What Not to Do
On Kirill's Day, people tried to stay close to home and avoid strangers. They were not particularly happy to see even acquaintances. The elders, whose opinions were respected, claimed that on this day, unclean forces could enter the home disguised as travelers or friends. During this time, it was forbidden to:
Visit others – there is a fear of leaving luck and fortune behind.
Lend or borrow money – this could lead to poverty.
Speak at the table about others' shortcomings – one could choke, which is dangerous.
Take and carry someone else's belongings – bad people might pass on their problems and troubles.
Finish food from others' plates, use someone else's cups – one could inherit someone else's ailments.
Cut nails – there is a risk of shortening one's life.
On Kirill's Day, it was also forbidden to count chicken eggs. Elders said that after this, laying hens could fall ill. Therefore, it was better to forget about chicken eggs.
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