December 26: the feast of St. Joseph and folk signs on the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin.

According to ТСН: Tomorrow, December 26, in the Orthodox calendar, is the feast of the memory of St. Joseph the Betrothed. St. Joseph was of the lineage of King David, which was important for the fulfillment of prophecies about the Messiah. Through Joseph, Jesus Christ legally belonged to the house of David, although he was born not of a human father.

According to legends, Joseph lived in Nazareth of Galilee and made his living as a carpenter.

Joseph was betrothed to the Blessed Virgin Mary, who took a vow of chastity. Their union was not a typical marriage; Joseph protected the honor and life of the Mother of God and cared for the God-child.

When Joseph learned of Mary's pregnancy, he, being righteous, did not want to shame Her before people and decided to release Her secretly. But the Lord appeared to him in a dream through an angel and revealed the secret:

“Do not be afraid to take Mary, your wife, for that which is conceived in Her is of the Holy Spirit.”

The Church feast on December 26 — the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin

The feast falls on the second day after the Nativity of Christ and is a continuation of the Christmas celebration. In iconography, the icon of the “Nativity of the Blessed Virgin” is often depicted, showing Mary with the Child surrounded by angels, saints, and the righteous. The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin celebrates the one through whom the birth of Jesus Christ became possible.

Signs of December 26

• A frosty day means that winter will be stable, without sharp thaws.

• If it is warm or thawing, February promises to be mild.

• A strong wind means the year will be restless, with frequent weather changes.

What cannot be done tomorrow

According to popular beliefs, this day requires special caution in actions. It was considered a sin to turn away from those who ask for help, especially from pregnant women, as such refusal could lead to long-lasting troubles.

What can be done tomorrow

In folk tradition, the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin had special significance, as it was perceived as a holiday of feminine strength, motherhood, and the birth of life. On this day, special respect was shown to pregnant women, young mothers, and midwives — all who were involved in the birth of a child and protected the mystery of childbirth.

The feast of the memory of St. Joseph the Betrothed and the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin gives us the opportunity to focus on the importance of family values, motherhood, and the duty to support each other in difficult situations. These holidays encourage charity and assistance to those in need, reminding us of the importance of community in each of our lives.