Celebrate the 40 Holy Martyrs of Sebaste this March 22
Orthodox Christians commemorate the 40 Holy Martyrs of Sebaste on Saturday, March 22. This is the most popular spring holiday, celebrated before Holy Easter.
The 40 martyrs were soldiers who confessed their Christianity and, as a result, refused to sacrifice to idols. Due to their faith in Christ, they endured numerous tortures.
According to tradition, this Christian holiday coincides with the beginning of the traditional agricultural year and gives rise to a Moldovan celebration — the Martyrs or "Măcinicii."
It is said that on this day, the graves and the gates of Heaven open. In honor of the Holy Martyrs, housewives bake 40 small round breads called “martyrs” or “sfințișori.” At church, the blessed breads, shaped like the number eight, are given as alms.
The Day of the Holy Martyrs is said to predict the weather for Easter. According to tradition, if thunder strikes during the day, it is a good omen, signaling a summer with favorable conditions for crops and a bountiful harvest.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
