On May 16, 2026, the martyrs Timothy and Mavra of Thebes are remembered. After that, the saint's name began to be pronounced as Martha. She received the nickname the Seedling because it was customary to plant seedlings on this day.
What is remembered in the Church on May 16, 2026
The young church reader Timothy and his young wife Mavra lived in the 3rd-4th centuries. The man was well-educated and very devout - he was a scribe and keeper of liturgical books. They lived under the most formidable fighter against Christianity, the pagan Emperor Diocletian.
And so, evil people reported Timothy for hiding forbidden religious literature in his home and not surrendering it for destruction. He was captured and tortured, but he refused to bow to pagan idols. By that time, only 20 days had passed since their wedding. Then the governor of the city, Arian, decided to resort to trickery. He convinced Mavra to dress up, perfume herself, and put on makeup to persuade her husband to renounce his faith. However, the husband asked his father, Presbyter Piccolpos, who was present at the execution, to cover his face with his garments so he would not see or feel Mavra as a source of desire.
The wife felt guilty and, following her husband's words, went to the ruler, revealed that she was a Christian, and declared that she wanted to share her husband's fate. She was terribly tortured, but she remained unharmed. And when she was thrown into a cauldron of boiling water, she shouted to the ruler that the water was not too hot, and when he approached to check the temperature, she splashed boiling water on him. Thanks to God's help, nothing harmed the beautiful body and face of Mavra.
Then the spouses were crucified on crosses facing each other. Both endured torment, and a demon even approached Mavra, but she was able to overcome the temptation, and as soon as the devil departed, an angel of the Lord appeared. He took her by the hand and ascended to heaven, showing that she and her husband were destined for heavenly delights there. After 9 days of torment, they passed away. Their bodies were redeemed by other Christians and buried with honor. Their relics became miraculous, and many received healing from them.
The Meaning of the Holiday
Heavenly love is stronger than earthly love, but together they are an incredible force.
What Can Be Done on May 16, 2026
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On this day, it is customary to plant young cabbage seedlings.
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It is customary to sow seeds in gardens.
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On this day, it is customary to make cabbage soup - from sauerkraut or fresh nettles.
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There is also a tradition on this day to cook porridge in milk, which is called Mavrin's.
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Attention should be given to your spouse so that you can live in harmony for the whole year.
What Cannot Be Done on May 16, 2026
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Under no circumstances should quarrels be started, especially with your significant other.
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It is not allowed to begin the construction of a house.
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It is not allowed to wash your hair.
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