Today the Orthodox have begun the Dormition Fast, the first day of which, according to folk tradition, is called the Savior of Honey. There is no such holiday in the church calendar. On this day, the holidays of the Life-giving Cross of the Lord, the image of the Savior and the icon of the Vladimir Mother of God are celebrated there. But the Church accepted and absorbed the popular beliefs.
In the 9th century, a very hot summer happened in Constantinople. Many people suffered from various ailments and died. Then the particles of the Cross of the Lord were carried through the city, after which the diseases miraculously receded. In Russia, this holiday coincided with the beginning of the collection of honey, and therefore many Orthodox Christians brought honey to churches for consecration. Therefore, this day began to be called the Savior of Honey.
On this day, special services are held in churches. They sing hymns dedicated to the meaning of the crucifixion of the Savior. And the priests wear purple robes. Many folk customs are associated with the holiday. For example, on this day it was customary to consecrate new wells and clean old ones. And also - to bathe livestock.
