Many Ukrainians are interested in what holiday to celebrate on December 14 according to the new calendar? After all, in 2023 we switched to the New Julian calendar, which means most church dates have moved, and we will celebrate them two weeks earlier than usual. In this material we will tell you what the new holiday is on December 14th, who has a name day on this day, and also recall folk signs and name the zodiac sign of those born on this day.
December 14: What holiday according to the new church calendar
According to the new church calendar, December is celebrated as the Day of Philemon and the Day of Remembrance of the Martyrs Apollonius, Theotichos and Arian. These saints lived in Egypt and became victims for their faith in Christ.
During the reign of Emperor Diocletian, there was massive persecution of Christians in the country. Those who refused to worship pagan idols were subjected to severe torture and torment.
Apollonius, being a reader and a Christian, was afraid of torture. In an attempt to avoid torment, he made a deal with the pagan Philemon: the latter had to wear the clothes of Apollonius and sacrifice to idols. However, suddenly Philemon was illuminated with divine understanding and believed in Jesus Christ, boldly declaring this despite the dangers. Upon learning of this, Apollonius felt ashamed of his previous fears, repented and also confessed his faith. Both were tortured for a long time and then executed by cutting off their heads.
The ruler Arian participated in the process of torture, who, subsequently, after a miraculous healing from an illness at the graves of executed Christians, accepted faith in Jesus Christ and was baptized. Theotichus, one of Arian’s bodyguards, also supported his ruler in his conversion to Christianity. For their faith and support, they were both put into sacks and thrown into the sea to drown.
What a holiday is December 14th in Ukraine and the world
On December 14, several important events are celebrated around the world:
- Day of honoring participants in the liquidation of the consequences of the accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant: This day is dedicated to the memory and recognition of the merits of those who bravely and selflessly coped with the liquidation of the consequences of the Chernobyl disaster. Participants in the liquidation, such as liquidators and medical personnel, receive deserved attention and gratitude from society for their heroism and self-sacrifice.
- World Energy Saving Day: This day reminds people of the importance of rational use of energy and encourages people around the world to take energy saving measures. In light of the global challenges posed by climate change, this day calls for conscious energy consumption, increased energy efficiency and the development of renewable energy sources.
- Naum the Gramotnik: Naum the Gramotnik is a saint whose name is associated with spiritual heritage and Christian tradition. Perhaps this day is celebrated in memory of Saint Naum the Reader, and the events of this day are associated with his life, exploits or memory in the Orthodox Church. He may be revered as an advocate in the fields of education, literature, or some other field corresponding to his spiritual contributions.
These events on December 14th remind us of the importance of civic responsibility, energy conservation and spirituality in our daily lives.
December 14: folk signs
There are several folk signs associated with December 14:
- If this day falls during warm weather, expect an equally warm winter.
- Heavy snowfall is a harbinger of floods in the spring.
- If the north wind blows, you should expect severe frosts in the near future.
- Clouds moving against the wind are a harbinger of cold weather.
- If on December 14th a “mitten moon” with side pillars is visible, this is a harbinger of the onset of frost. And if “the moon lies on its back,” expect warming.
December 14: name day for women and men
- Fedor: Slavic name, comes from the Greek “Theodoros” and translates as “God’s gift.” Found in Orthodox names of saints.
- Stepan: The name is of Slavic origin, meaning “crown” or “crowned.” Known thanks to Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr.
- Luke: The name is of Latin origin, translated as “bright” or “luminary.” Widely used in various cultures, also found among saints.
- David: The name is of Hebrew origin, translated as “beloved” or “beloved.” Descended from David, a great king in the Jewish and biblical traditions.
- Joseph: Hebrew name meaning “he who increases” or “who adds.” The name Joseph appears in the Bible, for example, in the stories of Joseph, the son of Jacob.
- Jacob: The name is also of Hebrew origin and is translated as “supporter” or “empathizer.” The name is found in the Patriarch Jacob in the Bible.
- Tikhon: A Russian name that can be translated as “quiet” or “calm.” In the Orthodox tradition it is often found among saints.
- Ferapont: The name is of Greek origin, meaning “bearing a fragrance” or “producing a good odor.” May occur in connection with saintly or monastic traditions.
December 14: Zodiac sign, compatibility
December 14 according to the zodiac sign belongs to Sagittarius. Sagittarians born on this day usually embody the qualities of their sign: they are often optimistic, energetic, exploratory and inquisitive people.
When it comes to compatibility, Sagittarians usually get along with Leos, Aries, and Geminis. These signs also support the energy and sense of adventure that Sagittarians often have. However, of course, the compatibility of people depends not only on the zodiac signs, but also on many other factors, such as individual personality characteristics, values and interests.