Old Style Date: August 21. On this day, Saint Thaddeus, one of the seventy apostles (those disciples of Jesus Christ who were not among the closest twelve apostles), is commemorated. Thaddeus was born in the Syrian city of Edessa. Once, when he came to Jerusalem for a festival, he heard the preaching of John the Baptist and was baptized by him in the Jordan. Later, after meeting Jesus, he became one of His disciples. After the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ, the Apostle Thaddeus went to preach in Syria and Mesopotamia. In his hometown of Edessa, he converted Prince Abgar, many common people, and even priests to Christianity. Thaddeus’ sermons were often accompanied by miracles—Abgar was mysteriously cured of leprosy. The prince wanted to reward the apostle, but Thaddeus refused all gifts and went on to other cities to spread the word of God. Upon reaching the Phoenician city of Beirut, Thaddeus founded a church there and then passed away. In Russia, on Thaddeus’ Day, it was customary to harvest flax. Since this day also commemorated the martyrdom of Saint Vassa of Alon, while working, people would say: “Grandma Vasilisa cares for the flax.” After the flax was harvested, it was laid out in the meadows to “settle,” in other words, to remove excess moisture and make it soft and flexible. During this process, each woman would recite a charm: “Settle, my white and soft flax, don’t fear the wind, storm, heavy rain, or the red sun.” Weather signs were also observed on this day. If the sky was clear and the sun shone brightly, similar weather was expected for the next four weeks. Name days on this date: Alexander, Ephraim, Ignatius, Cornelius, Paul, Raphael, Thaddeus.