Starting on February 17, 2025, the second preparatory week for Great Lent begins. During this week, the parable of the “Prodigal Son” by evangelist Luke is remembered, reminding us of the importance of being ready for repentance and believing in forgiveness.
This week is called “Meatfare,” as meat products will be prohibited after it. In popular culture, this week is known as “variegated” because during this period, Wednesdays and Fridays become fasting days.
On February 17, the feast of St. Nicholas the Studite or Nicholas the Confessor is also observed. In folklore, this day was called Nicholas Frosty, not only due to the similarity with the name “Studite” but also because this day often had frosty weather.
Who was Nicholas the Studite?
He was originally from the island of Crete and lived in the 8th century. At the age of 10, he went to live with his uncle Theophanes, who was a monk at the Studius Monastery with his family’s permission. The Studites, the residents of this monastery, had great authority in the Church, and were respected by the patriarch and the emperor.
Nicholas completed his education at the monastery and then became a monk. However, during his time, Emperor Leo V began persecuting believers who venerated icons. Nicholas and his uncle were seized, severely punished, and thrown into prison. They spent 6 years there until they were released after a change in leadership. However, the persecution continued, but they never wavered from their faith, leading to repeated imprisonments. Nicholas was only released under Empress Theodora, who appointed him as the abbot of his home monastery. During the reign of Michael III, he was imprisoned again at the Studius Monastery, which he once again led after the death of the persecuting emperor and the ascension of Basil I the Macedonian to the throne.
What to do on February 17, 2025?
– It is customary to pray for healing from illnesses on this day.
– A great day to visit the doctor.
– Important to complete all household chores.
– Also, take care of your pets.
What not to do on February 17, 2025?
– Going into the woods.
– Planning any long trips.
– Leaving the house after sunset.
– Doing harm to others.
– Envy.
– Cutting hair or washing the head.
– Cutting nails.