Today, Orthodox believers honor the memory of the holy martyrs Florus and Laurus.
Among the people, this celebration is called the Day of Florus and Laurus.
In Rus', on this day it was customary to look after livestock, especially horses. They had to be well looked after.
Florus and Laurus were half-brothers, they were born and lived in the 2nd century AD. They were born into a Byzantine family.
The brothers initially worked as masons. Their work resulted in very skillful buildings in Illyricum.
Over time, thanks to their merits, Florus and Laurus were sent to build a pagan temple.
The brothers obeyed, but during the construction they constantly prayed to Jesus Christ. They even healed the son of a pagan priest from blindness: he lost his sight after being hit by a stone.
After the miracle, both the priest and his son came to believe in Christ. They subsequently toppled all the pagan idols and erected Orthodox crosses in their place.
Then the emperor ordered the burning of all the traitors of idolatry, of which by that time there were more than 300 people. They agreed to die in the name of Christianity.
What you shouldn't do on Florus and Laurus Day
On this day, many people followed certain rules:
- did not harm animals or damage plants;
- did not harness horses or other livestock;
- were not lazy or idle.
It was on August 31 that it was considered a grave sin to commit ungodly acts, namely, to be offended by loved ones. Otherwise, according to beliefs, a whole year of deprivation would come.
What can you do on Florus and Laurus Day?
Today it is recommended to provide assistance to all those who need it.
In addition, you can start preparing supplies for the winter.
In the evening, you should sort out all unnecessary things and get rid of them.
