According to the old calendar, this day is celebrated on August 31. The Orthodox Church commemorates Saint Cyprian of Carthage, who lived in the 3rd century. He was the bishop of Carthage and gained fame as a skilled theologian; much of his writings focused on the issue of apostasy. Saint Cyprian is also considered the founder of the canonical teaching on the unity of the church. In Russia, it was said that on Cuprian’s Day (Cyprian), cranes would gather in the marshes to hold a council: deciding when to fly south and which path to take. Hence, the day’s other name, “Crane Council.” On this day, it was customary to begin gathering cranberries, also known as “crane berries.” Before this date, venturing into the marshes was forbidden. “Do not touch the cranberries until they burn bright, for they drive darkness into the shifting swamps,” wise folk used to say. Those who violated this rule were believed to face misfortune: girls would become barren, boys would lose their minds, and men and women could be dragged into the bog by evil spirits. The first person to gather cranberries on Cuprian’s Day was someone born on this date, as they were believed to know the way to the best berry patches. From the cranberries, people prepared various treats, such as sugar-coated cranberries or cranberry pies. They also boiled compotes, jellies, and delicious jams. Additionally, Cuprian’s Day marked the beginning of root vegetable harvests: turnips, carrots, beets, and potatoes were dug up. These vegetables appeared on the table boiled, fried, or baked, with potatoes taking center stage. Farmers would say: “Potatoes are bread’s companion.” Name Days: Alexander, Vladimir, Gennady, Dmitry, Cuprian, Myron, Michael