The Orthodox Church marks the feast of St Zlata of Meglen and St Luke today, 18 October. People with 12 names celebrate their name day: Zlata, Zlatka, Zlatan, Zlati, Zlatko, Zlatimir, Zlatin, Zlatina, Zlatitsa, Zlatomir, Luka and Lukan.

St Zlata of Meglen is a saint and great martyr, honoured by both Bulgarians and Greeks. She lived in the 18th century, under Ottoman rule in Bulgaria. She came from the village of Slatina in the Meglen region, known in Greek as Chrysi.

Zlata grew up in a poor family with three sisters. Her life story describes her as an unusually beautiful, humble and devout child with firm faith. It names her beauty as the reason for her trials and martyrdom.

The story tells of a young Turk who lay in wait for her and finally kidnapped her. He wanted her to renounce her faith and become his wife. Zlata did not give up Christianity, even when her family begged her to.

St Luke wrote the Gospel about the life and deeds of Christ. He was born in Antioch, Syria, and was widely known as a healer and a gifted painter.

In Antioch, Luke met St Paul and decided to serve God. Around 50 AD he gave up healing and followed the apostle.

He contributed to the New Testament, which the church recognises. He is believed to be the first Christian icon painter and the first to paint the Virgin Mary holding Christ in her arms.

St Luke is the patron saint of artists, and 18 October is also their feast day.