Society

04 March, 2026 / 09:21

/ 14 January, 2026

Orthodox Christians celebrate Saint Basil the Great

Old-style Orthodox Christians today, January 14, are celebrating Saint Basil the Great, one of the most important figures in Christianity, recognized as a great hierarch of the Church and a leading theologian. This day has a double significance, also marking the beginning of the New Year, according to the old calendar.

According to popular traditions, on Saint Basil’s Day, households open their gates to receive groups of sowers. Children go out for the Sowing or with the Sorcova, scattering grains of wheat, corn or oats and reciting wishes for abundance and health for their hosts. The seeds thrown into yards and houses are considered symbols of hope for a fruitful and prosperous year. Those who go caroling are rewarded with braided bread, sweets and money.

Christian tradition records that Saint Basil the Great was the first hierarch who, in addition to building churches, laid the foundations of shelters and hospitals meant to support those in need.

Saint Basil lived during the reign of Emperor Valens, in a time marked by persecutions against the Church and the spread of the Arian heresy. He firmly defended the Orthodox faith, even going so far as to rebuke the emperor himself for his errors. Through his sermons and writings, Saint Basil opposed false teachings, promoted sound moral principles and was actively involved in helping the poor, the sick and the elderly.

In Moldova, over 67,000 men bear the first name Vasile. In addition, approximately 5,000 women are registered with the name Vaselisa, considered the feminine form of this name.

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