On January 24, Christians of the Eastern rite in Ukraine celebrate the day of St. Ksenia, dedicated to the memory of Ksenia of Milas or Ksenia Rimlyanka. It was previously celebrated on February 6. But due to the transition of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) to a new calendar, the date of the holiday has changed.

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History of the holiday.

The saint lived in the 5th century and was the only daughter of a wealthy Roman senator. At birth, she received the name Eusebius.

The girl had a strong faith from a young age and wanted to devote her life to God. But their parents found her groom and planned a magnificent wedding.

Eusebius did not want this marriage, so she secretly escaped from the house with two devoted maids. They arrived by ship to the island of Koa, where they stopped at the edge of the settlement. Then she changed her name to Ksenia, which means “stranger”.

On the island, they met the hegumen of the monastery of St. Andrew the First -Called in the city of Milas, Father Paul. He became her spiritual leader. From the island of Koa they went to Milas, where Ksenia purchased a small house and converted it into a monastery.

Over time, other women who wanted to lead a monastic lifestyle began to join Ksenia. When Ksenia's earthly journey came to an end, she said goodbye to her sisters and remained in the church for a long time herself, praying before the crucifix.

According to legend, during the repose of Xenia, a cross in a brilliant wreath appeared above the monastery, accompanying the funeral procession right up to the burial place of the righteous nun. They also believe that many wonderful healings occurred at the grave of St. Ksenia.

Prohibitions of the day.

From ancient times on this day there were certain prohibitions that tried to observe.

On this day it was forbidden to cut the nails, as this could cause convulsions. It was believed that on this day it is impossible to cross the bed, because this can be caused by illnesses.

On this day it was forbidden to tie knots. It was believed that this could bring about a funeral. It is impossible to work physically for the holiday, to wash, clean, embroider.

It was believed that on the holiday it is impossible to swear, slander, quarrel.