On December 18, 2024, the memory of St. Savva the Sanctified is honored. In Russia, this day was called Savvin Day or Savva with Bacon. A saying has been preserved: “Savva ate bacon, wiped his mouth, locked the door, and said, ‘I didn’t see.’” On this day, it is customary to spend time with family; visiting others or wandering aimlessly outside is not encouraged. People used to say about December 18: “Don’t step outside – don’t hinder road paving.” Savva was born in the 5th century into a devout Christian family in Cappadocia (modern-day Turkey), to parents John, a military commander, and Sophia. At the age of 17, he became a monk and, through his intense prayer, received the gift of performing miracles. Later, he was blessed by his abbot to live in seclusion in a cave. Only once a week, on Saturdays, would he leave his cave to go to the monastery and take food. He lived this way for five years, reaching great spiritual heights. Eventually, he moved permanently to another cave near the monastery of St. Gerasimus of the Jordan. Disciples began to gather around him, leading to the establishment of the Great Lavra. Savva went on to found several other monasteries. He died at an advanced age. During his lifetime, Savva performed many miracles: at his prayers, rain fell during a drought, a spring appeared near the Lavra, and many sick people were healed. Additionally, Savva wrote the first church service rulebook, the so-called "Jerusalem Typicon," which was adopted by all Palestinian monasteries. What is allowed on December 18, 2024? An excellent day to spend at home. Dedicate the day to routine tasks. Spend time with your family. A good day to clean and organize footwear. You can buy new shoes. What is forbidden on December 18, 2024? Laziness. Starting new projects. Visiting others. Walking aimlessly. Sewing or embroidering. Washing your hair, especially for pregnant women.