On May 20, 2026, the Ascension of Easter will take place. This is the last day of the 49 after the main Orthodox holiday, which is considered festive. This day also commemorates Saint Akakiy of Cappadocia.
What is Remembered in the Church on May 20, 2026
Akakiy lived at the turn of the 2nd and 3rd centuries in Cappadocia (an area in modern-day Turkey) and was a Christian. His upbringing coincided with the most intense period of persecution of Christians under the ruling Emperor Maximian. Akakiy was a brave and clever young man and quickly advanced in his military career, which he decided to dedicate his life to.
By the age of 25, he had already risen to the rank of centurion in the Martisian regiment. But then his superior was informed that Akakiy was a secret Christian. He was captured, systematically tortured day after day, and shackled at night. They then decided to send him to the highest court in Byzantium. Akakiy walked on foot, exhausted from his wounds. But during a rest, he managed to thank the Lord in a trembling voice for the opportunity to suffer for Him. At that moment, he and all those who followed him heard a voice from heaven urging the young man to be courageous.
When he reached Byzantium, he was imprisoned again. There, other prisoners regularly saw how at night young men, who radiated light, washed Akakiy's wounds. Realizing that Akakiy was not suffering at all, they ordered him to be beaten and then beheaded. During the reign of Emperor Constantine, a church was built in honor of Saint Akakiy, where his relics were transferred. Later, the relics were moved to Italy to the city of Scillazion in Calabria.
The Meaning of the Holiday
This day reminds us that the Lord is always with us and always accompanies our path.
Worship Traditions
A service for the Ascension of the Easter holiday is held.
What to Do on May 20, 2026
- It is customary to wash with rainwater collected in advance.
- It is good to visit the bathhouse.
- It is customary to engage in gardening work, but not planting.
- It is good to prepare a plan for your near future.
- One should maintain a good mood.
What Not to Do on May 20, 2026
- One should not start any new work.
- It is very bad to be lazy on this day.
- No one except the child's mother should bathe the child.
- One should not wash with spring water.
- One should not engage in planting.
Interesting Fact
It is good to exchange seeds with neighbors. The plants grown from them should yield a large harvest.
