September 5: What the Prophet Zechariah Predicts About the Weather and Winter According to Folk Signs.

According to inkorr.com: The feast of the holy prophet Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, is celebrated on September 5 in the Orthodox Church. This day commemorates the memory of the priest Zechariah, who was promised the birth of his son John, who became a great prophet. Zechariah sincerely served God, and his son suffered a martyr's death at the behest of the king. This story symbolizes faith and devotion.

Prayers of the Day

As a priest and prophet of God, Zechariah, pray to the Lord for deliverance from evils, for you are a martyr and servant of Christ. With a prophetic spirit, you foretold the future, becoming the forerunner of God Jesus Christ. We glorify you and bless you. Amen.

Folk Beliefs and Signs

According to folk beliefs, the weather on the feast of St. Zechariah can indicate the character of the upcoming season:

• A calm sky promises a warm and long autumn.
• Rain indicates that the month will be rainy.
• A strong wind may signal a harsh winter.
• If there are many rowan berries on the trees, it is a harbinger of a cold winter.

The feast of Zechariah serves as an important reminder of the history and traditions that emphasize the significance of faith and devotion. Honoring the saint is a significant element of religious life, and folk beliefs and signs help people better understand the nature of the surrounding world.