“On December 30, the Orthodox Church honors the memory of the holy martyr Anisia of Thessalonica, who lived at the end of the 3rd century. The holiday is dedicated to sacrifice and unwavering devotion to God: Anisia, despite her wealth and noble origin, chose to serve the poor and accepted martyrdom for the Christian faith. On this day, believers pray for spiritual stability, patience and help in serving others. Religious holidays and”, — write on: ua.news
On December 30, the Orthodox Church honors the memory of the holy martyr Anisia of Thessalonica, who lived at the end of the 3rd century. The holiday is dedicated to sacrifice and unwavering devotion to God: Anisia, despite her wealth and noble origin, chose to serve the poor and accepted martyrdom for the Christian faith. On this day, believers pray for spiritual stability, patience and help in serving others.
Religious holidays and their history
Memorial Day of the holy martyr Anisia of Thessalonica
On December 30, Orthodox believers remember Saint Anisia, who was born in the Greek city of Thessaloniki in a Christian family. After the death of her parents, she received a huge inheritance, but decided to give it to the needy, freed her slaves and devoted herself to strict fasting and prayer.
At that time, Emperor Maximian issued an order allowing the killing of Christians with impunity. One day, when Anisia was going to a prayer meeting, she was stopped by a pagan warrior. He demanded that she deny Christ and sacrifice to idols. Anisia refused and boldly confessed her faith. An angry warrior struck her with a sword, and the saint was martyred. Her life became a powerful testimony that true wealth lies in purity of soul and love for the Lord.
Prayers of the day
Folk beliefs and omens
Our ancestors called this day “Anisia Zimova”. It was believed that the omens of December 30 have a powerful power to predict the future:
- If it is sunny and warm in Anisia, wait for an early and beautiful spring.
- If the south wind blows, next summer will be rich in harvest and sunny days.
- Abundant frost on the trees this day promises a powerful thaw in a week.
- If you cannot see the stars in the sky due to clouds – the weather will change dramatically, a blizzard is possible.
- It was believed that dreams about Anisia were prophetic, so they were treated with special attention.
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