June 22 is a special Cyril's Day holiday: folk signs and prohibitions

On June 22, Orthodox believers honor the memory of St. Cyril of Alexandria, one of the ancient teachers of the Church. In the national calendar, the holiday is known as Cyril's Day. In 2025, the date falls on a Sunday. Izvestia tells us how the saint became famous and how the holiday was celebrated in the old days.

What national holiday is celebrated on June 22

Saint Cyril was born in the fourth century in the city of Alexandria, into a family of noble and pious Christians. In his youth, he received a good education and joined the monastic monastery of St. Macarius the Great, where he began his spiritual journey. Later, he was ordained deacon, and then elected to the post of patriarch of the Church of Alexandria.

The saint actively fought against heretical teachings, achieving the expulsion of heretics from Alexandria. For more than 30 years, he led the Church of Alexandria, which by the end of his ministry was completely cleansed of false teachings. The saint also became famous as the author of numerous theological works and writings.

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After the adoption of Christianity, Cyril of Alexandria was revered in Russia. On a national Christian holiday, the saint was asked to give a clear and warm summer so that the harvest could ripen before autumn.

Folk signs on June 22

Traditionally, on Cyril's Day, the villages began planting late seedlings, mowing and drying hay. Our ancestors believed that it was on this day that the sun transmitted all its power to the earth and plants, so it was associated with agricultural work. The people said: "What the sun gives on Cyril's day, the man has in the barn."

Also, the first strawberries began to ripen by this holiday. Its flowers, leaves and berries were popular with healers: it was believed that the plant has a bright energy and is able to protect against dark forces. A few strawberry leaves were put in a pocket or carried with them as a talisman. And unmarried girls used the miraculous properties of the plant to find their destiny and meet their future spouse.

There are also many weather signs associated with the holiday date. In the old days, it was believed that if a rainbow appeared in the sky, it meant that the year would be successful. The spiders spinning their webs heralded a clear day. And the low-flying swallows were harbingers of rain.

Cyril's Day in 2025: what can and cannot be done

Quarrels and swearing are forbidden on Cyril's Day. It is especially forbidden to express bad wishes, because they can come true. Even if you say a word in a hurry, it will turn into big trouble. In order not to get into trouble, you should not share your plans.

It is also not recommended to build bonfires, as fire can attract evil spirits. For the same reason, you can not swear and use abusive words — otherwise a black streak will begin in life. Dark clothes on this day should be preferred to white, yellow or orange shades. According to popular beliefs, these colors will bring good luck.

The day before, Fyodor Kolodeznik was celebrated in Russia. Izvestia told about the history, traditions and prohibitions of this day.