The Orthodox Church in Ukraine is marking the feast day of the holy martyr Lavrentiy, known in English as Saint Lawrence, on August 10, 2026, under the new church calendar.
The church also honors Pope Sixtus II, the deacons Felicissimus and Agapitus, and the martyr Roman of Rome that day, which falls on August 23 under the old calendar. Under the old calendar, August 10 instead marks the apostles of the Seventy, including Prochorus and Parmenas.
Who was Saint Lawrence
Tradition holds that all those honored suffered for their Christian faith in 258 AD under Emperor Valerian. Sixtus II and his deacons were arrested first, and Lavrentiy, who cared for the poor and church property, was seized soon after.
He refused to hand over the church's treasures and was sentenced to death. Before dying, he pointed to the poor, widows and orphans as the Church's true wealth, and tradition says he kept helping the sick and converting people even in prison.
Believers pray to him for health, family matters and healing, especially eye problems. He is considered a helper of the blind and a protector against the evil eye.
Folk customs on Lavrentiy's Day
In folk tradition the date is called Lavrentiy's Day or Lavrentiy Zorivnyk, named for the especially striking crimson sunrises and sunsets seen at this time of year. Folklore says anyone whose face catches the first rays of dawn gains strength, health and beauty, so people are advised to rise early.
The day is considered good for travel, pilgrimages, trips out of town and finishing household or farm work. It is also a traditional time to prepare for winter, airing featherbeds, pillows and blankets in the sun.
Meeting a black or white cat is a good sign, as long as the animal is petted and fed. A black cat on Lavrentiy's Day is said to help clear away current troubles, while a white one is believed to bring luck, happiness and financial wellbeing.
Tradition also calls for watching one's words and thoughts, not just actions. The Church condemns cursing, quarrels, gossip, slander, envy and greed, and people are urged to avoid raised voices and arguments. The Dormition Fast is ongoing, so those observing it avoid animal products.
Folk belief warns against laziness and lying in bed on August 10, saying inactivity that day can lead to financial trouble or poverty. People are also advised not to share their plans or dreams, and to avoid needlework, so as not to symbolically "sew" others' problems onto themselves.
Weather signs and name days
Ukrainian folk tradition used the weather on August 10 to predict the coming autumn, winter and next year's harvest. Strong heat is said to mean a rainy autumn, heavy rain a long wet one, and warm weather good fishing until summer's end. Linden trees turning yellow signal an early autumn.
Gusty wind points to calm weather ahead, and a forest full of acorns to a rich harvest next year. Birds falling suddenly silent are said to warn of bad weather coming. Calm water on a pond at midday points to a mild autumn and winter, while fine ripples suggest an unsettled August and September.
Lavrentiy and Roman celebrate their name day on August 10. People born on this date are said to have strong character, confidence and determination, with a flexible mind and the ability to get along with others that helps them find a way through difficult situations.
