The Day of the Transfer of the Relics of Theodosius of Pechersk: what is this saint famous for and what not to do today

On August 14, believers remember St. Theodosius of the Caves. The transfer of his relics is an important event not only in the history of the Kyiv Cave Monastery but also in the history of the Orthodox Church.

Theodosius was one of the founders of the Kyiv Cave Monastery. The famous church leader and spiritual mentor lived in the eleventh century. Read about the traditions and beliefs of this day in the OBOZ.UA article.

Transfer of the relics of Theodosius of the Caves

Theodosius or Theodosius was born in the town of Vasylkiv, not far from Kyiv, in 1008. From his youth, he aspired to spiritual life and ministry. In 1032, he entered the Kyiv Cave Monastery, which at that time was under the leadership of Anthony.

Theodosius led an ascetic life, was pious, helped his neighbors, and was famous for his mercy. His efforts continued the development of the monastery and the introduction of the charter.

Theodosius died on May 3, 1074 and was buried in the Near Caves of the Lavra. According to legend, his relics have miraculous powers and can heal people from diseases.

The transfer of the saint's relics took place on August 14, 1091, thanks to the efforts of Abbot John and other brothers. There is a legend that the relics of the saint were found incorrupt, which further strengthened the popular belief in his holiness. The relics were transferred to the new stone church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which was built by the efforts of Theodosius.

St. Theodosius of the Caves is one of the most prominent saints of the Kyiv Cave Monastery.

Weather signs on August 14

The weather on this day was used to predict what kind of autumn would be like and whether the rainy season would be coming soon.

A calm day meant a dry and mushroomy autumn.

If it suddenly rains, the fall will be cold and wet.

A light summer wind that does not turn into squalls predicts a dry, warm autumn, while windy weather, on the contrary, portends a lot of rain.

What not to do on August 14

According to popular belief, it is better not to cook any dough dishes on this day, even lean ones. It has long been believed that otherwise there is a risk of bringing financial difficulties on the family and even losing all savings.

There was also a belief that unmarried girls should not wear old clothes on this day, otherwise they may never meet their destiny.

In ancient times, builders and masons were honored on Theodosius' day. People of these professions were respected and even feared: they believed that during the construction an offended or angry builder could do something mean and the family would live unhappily in this house.

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