December 18: St. Sebastian's Day, Folk Omens and What You Absolutely Should Not Do.

According to ТСН: Tomorrow, December 18, the Orthodox calendar commemorates the memory of the holy martyr Sebastian and his wife. St. Sebastian lived in the 3rd century during the cruel persecutions of Christians under the reign of emperors Diocletian and Maximian. His origins are associated with Narbonne in Gaul or Mediolanum, but it is known that he was raised in the Christian faith and made a successful career in the Roman army. Sebastian became an officer of the Praetorian Guard and was part of the inner circle of the imperial court, long concealing his faith. Using his position, he secretly supported imprisoned Christians, visited them in dungeons, strengthened them in faith, and prepared them for martyrdom.

Sebastian's Army

A special place in his life is occupied by the so-called “Sebastian's army.” Being among the soldiers, he led his subordinates and friends to Christianity, convincing them that service to the Empire could not be above faithfulness to Christ. According to church tradition, many soldiers received baptism thanks to his preaching; among them are mentioned the martyr brothers Mark and Markellian, the jailer Castulus, and other soldiers and their family members who later also became victims of persecution and died for their faith.

The Death of the Saint

When the emperor learned that his close officer was a Christian, he ordered Sebastian to be secretly executed to avoid publicity. The saint was tied to a tree or a post and shot with arrows, believed to be dead. This episode became the reason why Sebastian became one of the most recognizable saints in Christian art.

Omens for December 18

• A frosty day on December 18 foreshadows a cold January.

• If snow falls in the morning, it will stay for a long time.

• A foggy day promises rains and abundant water for the year.

What Should Not Be Done Tomorrow

In ancient times, it was believed that on this day an unclean force roams the world, so knives and sharp objects should be hidden, not left in plain sight. Leftover food was not thrown away – it was believed that with it, good fortune might leave the home. It was also strictly forbidden to lend or borrow money, as this could cast a shadow over the entire year, making it filled with financial difficulties.

What Can Be Done Tomorrow

According to folk beliefs, to attract wealth to the home, it was advised to buy a new broom on this day, tie it with a red ribbon, and place it in a corner of the house. There is also a belief: if you sneeze today, the next year promises happiness and good luck.

The memory day of St. Sebastian is not only of great importance for Christians but is also connected with traditions that have reached us from ancient times. The omens born from observations of nature still play an important role in people's lives, helping them tune in for the coming year. These customs reflect a deep respect for nature and the culture of ancestors.