On December 17, 2024, the feast day of the Great Martyr Saint Barbara and Martyr Juliana is celebrated. This day, traditionally known as "Barbara's Day" in Russia, was considered a celebration for women. Childless women prayed to Saint Barbara for the blessing of pregnancy, while mothers prayed for their children's health. Saint Barbara was the daughter of a nobleman named Dioscorus, a pagan from the city of Heliopolis (in modern-day Syria). She was born during the reign of the Roman Emperor Maximin. Her mother died when she was a child, and her wealthy and influential father lavished all his love and care on his only daughter. According to legend, her father built a tower to keep her isolated, barely allowing her to leave. From the height of the tower, as she gazed upon the beauty of the world, she pondered its Creator. When she grew older, many suitors came seeking her hand, but she refused them all, resolutely rejecting marriage. While her father was away on a long journey, Barbara, who was occasionally allowed outside for walks, met several Christian women. Later, she encountered a priest and received the sacrament of baptism. She firmly decided to dedicate her life to Christ. Upon returning, her father learned of her conversion and, enraged, attempted to strike her with his sword. Barbara managed to escape and hid in a cleft in the rocks, which miraculously opened to shelter her. Eventually, her father found her and dragged her to the city governor for trial. The young woman was brutally tortured and imprisoned overnight. That night, as legend has it, the Lord appeared to her and said, “Be courageous, My bride, and do not fear, for I am with you. Endure to the end, so you may soon enjoy eternal blessings in My Kingdom.” The next day, Barbara was completely healed. Witnessing this miracle, another woman named Juliana publicly declared her Christian faith. She was also arrested, and both women were beheaded. The relics of Saint Barbara were transferred to Constantinople and, in the 12th century, brought to Kyiv as part of the dowry of Byzantine Emperor Alexios Komnenos's daughter, Princess Barbara. What Can Be Done on December 17, 2024? Spend this day at home in a calm and unhurried manner. It is customary to clean the house. Finish any sewing projects. Bake cookies and prepare compote. What Cannot Be Done on December 17, 2024? Avoid starting arguments. Do not use foul language or profanity. Do not leave the house without a good reason.