Name day is celebrated today by Magdalena and Miglena – traditions and prohibitions for July 22

On July 22 (August 4 Old Style), the Orthodox Church marks the feast of the Myrrh-bearing and Equal-to-the-Apostles Mary Magdalene, as well as the Transfer of the Relics of the Holy Martyr Phocas. The date is part of the summer Orthodox calendar and is associated with a special veneration for the saint, whom the people see as the first herald of Christ's Resurrection.

According to church tradition, Mary Magdalene is a faithful and devoted follower of Jesus Christ, a myrrh-bearer who followed Him to the very crucifixion and witnessed the empty tomb. She was the first to utter the joyful cry "Christ is Risen!" and it is because of this role that she is called Equal-to-the-Apostles – considered equal in merit to the apostles.

Who celebrates a name day

On this day, women named Magdalena and Miglena celebrate their name day, and in many places, variants such as Madlen, Madlena, and Magda are also marked. Usually, those named celebrate by gathering close friends and family for a festive meal, and guests offer them wishes for health, prosperity, love, and peace in the family.

The name Magdalena is associated with the ancient city of Magdala near the Sea of Galilee, which is considered the saint's birthplace. In the Christian tradition, it is perceived as a symbol of faith, spiritual strength, and the ability to begin a new life after repentance.

What are the traditions on July 22

In folk beliefs, July 22 is a day that brings blessings and protection for women, children, and the family. In many places, people visit a church, light a candle before the icon of Saint Mary Magdalene, and pray for health, children, love, and harmony in the home.

An old custom described in ethnographic sources is the gathering of early morning dew. The people called it "silver dew" and believed that if a person washed their face with it, they would preserve their youth, fresh look, and healthy skin for a longer time.

Prohibitions and superstitions for the holiday

According to folk beliefs, it is not recommended to do heavy work in the fields, in the yard, or in the garden on this day. It was believed that hard work could trigger a severe thunderstorm and that one could be struck by lightning – a belief associated primarily with women and their protection.

Tradition advises avoiding arguments, harsh words, and curses – the belief is that a conflict started on this day could leave a long shadow over the relationships between loved ones. Instead, the holiday is seen as a suitable time for reconciliation, forgiveness, and tranquility, so that the day can be met in peace and gratitude.

How to observe the day today

In addition to a visit to the church and prayer, many families prepare a special bread or sweets to distribute for health and prosperity. Those celebrating their name day treat their guests, and the festive meal brings relatives and friends together in honor of the saint and those who bear these beautiful names.

In modern daily life, traditions can be combined with small gestures – a greeting to the person celebrating, a group photo, a short prayer, or a wish for light and strength following the example of Mary Magdalene. In this way, the old church holiday remains alive and relevant, reminding us of the value of faith, hope, and love.