January 5: What is strictly forbidden to do on the day of Saints Theopemptus and Theona.

According to ТСН: Tomorrow, January 5, in the Orthodox calendar, is the day of remembrance of the holy martyrs Theopemptus and Theona. Saint Theopemptus, a bishop, lived during the reign of Emperor Diocletian, when the Christian Church faced severe trials. He was publicly accused of professing faith and brought to trial.

The emperor tried to force Theopemptus to renounce Christ, threatening him with torture and death. However, the saint remained faithful to his faith and refused to sacrifice to pagan gods. For this, he was subjected to brutal torture: thrown into a dungeon, attempted to be poisoned, starved. According to legends, none of these tortures broke him, which was seen as a manifestation of God's power.

During his suffering, Theona — a sorcerer and servant of the emperor, knowledgeable in pagan magic — witnessed Theopemptus's feat. Amazed by the bishop's steadfastness and the evident action of God's grace, Theona believed in Christ.

He openly confessed his new faith, for which he immediately faced persecution. They tortured Theona just like Theopemptus, trying to make him renounce Christ, but he remained steadfast.

Both saints completed their earthly journey with a martyr's death, demonstrating their fidelity to Christ until the end. Their feat became a vivid example of spiritual courage, the power of faith, and the victory of Christian truth over fear and violence.

Signs of January 5

• A gloomy day or drizzle — indicates a quick thaw.

• Fine falling snow — promises a bountiful year, especially for grains.

• A strong wind on January 5 — spring will be cold and prolonged.

What can be done tomorrow

On this day of Orthodox tradition, believers must attend the temple for evening worship, during which the water is blessed. The holy water is taken home as a special relic: it is sprinkled around the house, asking for God's protection and blessing. It is also kept throughout the year. It is consumed in the morning on an empty stomach, in small quantities, most often together with a piece of prosphora.

The day of remembrance of Saints Theopemptus and Theona reminds us of the power of faith and spiritual courage in the face of trials. This is an opportunity for many believers to pause for a moment and reflect on their convictions, as well as to honor the memory of the saints through prayer and good deeds. Such days are important moments in the calendar for restoring spiritual strength and community unity.