Date in the old style: September 6. In the Orthodox calendar, this is the feast of the Archangel Michael – one of the most revered biblical figures. The word “archangel” means “chief messenger,” and his name (in its original form consisting of three words “Mi ka el”) literally translates to “Who is like God.” In Orthodoxy, Archangel Michael is called an archistrategos and is venerated as the head of the holy host of angels who stand guard over God’s law. Thus, he is considered the protector and ally of Christians who stand against the forces of evil. Michael is also called the guardian of the souls of the deceased, as he is said to have carried the souls of Abraham and the Virgin Mary to heaven. According to tradition, he also guards the gates of heaven. It was customary to pray to Archangel Michael for healing from various ailments, due to his veneration as the conqueror of evil spirits, which were believed to be the source of diseases. Healing springs were often named after Saint Michael. In Russia, on this day, secular gatherings, known as bratchinas, were held, where various family and neighborly issues were resolved. After the discussions, which often turned into arguments and disputes, feasts were held, with each person bringing their own dish. At the table, reconciliation and bonding usually took place. There were two major bratchinas during the year – Mikhail’s and Nikolai’s (December 19). However, working on Mikhail’s Day was forbidden, as it was said that God would punish those who did. People also paid attention to the weather on this day. The first frosts began. “Mikhail has brought the frost,” people said. If frost appeared on the trees after Mikhail’s frosts, it was a sign of heavy snow in the winter. People also observed how the leaves fell from the aspen: if they fell “face up,” it meant a cold winter, if “underside up,” it signified a warm winter. Names celebrated on this day: Andrei, Arkhip, Vsevolod, David, Denis, Dmitry, Ivan, Kirill, Konstantin, Makar, Mikhail, Fekla