On June 22, 2026, the memory of Saint Cyril, Archbishop of Alexandria, and Reverend Cyril, Abbot of Belozersk, is honored. This day is known in the folk tradition as Cyril's Sun Turn, because the day before was the summer solstice, making today the longest day of the year.
What is remembered on June 22, 2026
Cyril of Alexandria. The future saint lived in the 4th century in Alexandria and came from a very noble family that practiced Christianity. In his early youth, he decided to dedicate his life to God and entered the skete of Saint Macarius in the Nitrian Mountains. He stayed there for 6 years, after which Patriarch Theophilus of Alexandria ordained him as a deacon.
He saw in the young man intelligence and piety, as well as the ability to speak eloquently, and entrusted Cyril with preaching. After the death of Theophilus, Cyril was elected to his position. He served as the Metropolitan of Alexandria for 32 years. He fiercely fought against the spread of heresy and was even imprisoned for it, but later returned to his see. He passed away in 444. He left behind a rich literary legacy that became a classic of spiritual literature.
Cyril of Belozersk. He was born in Moscow to very pious parents. After becoming an orphan at a young age, he was raised in the home of a relative—boyar Timofey Velyaminov, who held a high position as a okolnichy at the court of Prince Dmitry Donskoy. The Reverend Stephen of Makhri sought out the boy's inclination towards church life and asked to send him to Simonov Monastery. There he took monastic vows and met Reverend Sergius, who took a special interest in the young man and often conversed with him.
He was even elected as the abbot, but soon renounced the high position and went into seclusion. At that time, he heard the voice of the Mother of God commanding him to go to Lake Beloye. There he found a cave where he continued his solitary prayerful struggle. Later, through the efforts of Cyril and his companions, the Monastery of the Most Pure Mother of God was founded, which is known as the Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery. For all his spiritual feats, the Lord rewarded Cyril with the gift of insight, healing, and miracles. He also left a significant spiritual legacy; his letters to princes became a model of spiritual mentorship and consolation.
The Meaning of the Holiday
Two spiritual mentors are remembered, who did much for the triumph of Christianity.
What can be done on June 22, 2026
It is great to meet the dawn on this day and stand under the first rays of the sun.
Late seedlings can be planted.
People go to gather wild strawberries.
It is an excellent day to throw out all unnecessary things from the house.
A great day to give up all bad habits.
What cannot be done on June 22, 2026
One should not be sad or succumb to despondency.
One should not wear black clothes.
Do not go deep into the forest.
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