January 4: What is strictly prohibited to do on the day of the Assembly of 70 Apostles.

According to ТСН: Tomorrow, January 4, the Orthodox calendar marks the Assembly of the Holy 70 Apostles. The Gospel of Luke (10:1–24) mentions that Jesus chose seventy or seventy-two disciples and sent them "ahead of Him to every city and place where He was about to go." Their mission was to preach the Kingdom of God, heal the sick, and proclaim peace. It is commonly believed that these apostles spread Christianity in various corners of the world, including Palestine, Egypt, Greece, Rome, Asia Minor, Phoenicia, and other regions.

Church holiday on January 4 - the feast day of St. Theoctistus, abbot

Saint Theoctistus is a reverend abbot known for his strict monastic life, wise spiritual guidance, and fervent faith. He lived during a time when the Church faced severe trials due to the heresy of iconoclasm, and monastic life was persecuted in many places.

Theoctistus founded a monastery in the city of Kukumi (or Koukumi) in Sicily, where he was chosen as abbot. This monastery became a refuge for Greek monks seeking protection from persecution for their Orthodox beliefs during the iconoclast period. The saint not only accepted the brethren but also welcomed those who aspired to monastic life and spiritual wisdom, helping them in their spiritual growth.

Theoctistus lived in the second half of the 8th century, when iconoclastic emperors persecuted worshippers of icons and strict monks. His monastery became a place of preservation of faith and sacred images, where monks could continue their prayers and worship amidst external pressure. Saint Theoctistus passed away in 800.

Signs of January 4

• Clear weather on January 4 - means a clear and cold winter.

• If the wind blows from the south - it will be warm and there will be little snow.

• Snow on trees lies evenly and fluffy - spring will be mild, without sharp frosts.

What should not be done tomorrow

On this day, it is categorically not recommended to provoke unclean forces: it is advisable to avoid swearing, quarrels, and mentions of the unclean. Folk wisdom asserts that at the end of the holidays, evil spirits become particularly active, so it is best not to give them any chance to cause harm.

What can be done tomorrow

According to folk traditions, on this day, everything bad was expelled from the home: the house was walked around with an icon and prayer to cleanse it of negativity. Another interesting ritual to scare off unclean forces involved creating noise in the house: hitting a ladle against a large pot or banging something loud to drive away evil spirits.

Thus, the holiday on January 4 is not only associated with the memory of saints but also with folk traditions that help people leave behind negativity and restore a positive atmosphere in the home. On this day, it is essential to remember the value of peace and harmony in one's life.