Church Holiday on May 26: Traditions, Taboos, and Superstitions of Karpov Day
On May 26, the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, following the New Julian calendar, commemorates the Apostles of the Seventy—Carpus and Alphaeus.
Among the people, this holiday has long been known as Karp’s Day or Karpopolov.
The apostles Carpus and Alpheus were disciples of Jesus Christ, although little historical information about them has survived.
Alpheus is known as the father of the apostles James Alpheus and Matthew. Carpus was a close associate of the Apostle Paul, accompanying him on missionary journeys and helping to preach Christianity.
According to tradition, the Apostle Paul once left books and priestly vestments with Carpus, which served as a sign of his ordination as bishop of the city of Berea in Thrace. The circumstances of the saint’s death have not been preserved by history.
According to the Julian calendar, on this day the venerable martyr Macarius, Archimandrite of Kaniv and Ovruch, is honored, and the transfer of his relics is commemorated.
Traditions and Customs of Karpo’s Day
It was believed among the people that May 26 was especially lucky for fishermen, as carp supposedly came right into their hands. That is why men would set out fishing in the morning.
According to tradition, part of the catch was given to the needy, as generosity on this day, according to popular belief, brings prosperity and good luck.
It was also customary on Carp Day to invite a stove-maker to inspect the stove—ancestors prepared in advance for the cold weather.
Another ancient custom was to breathe in the scent of blooming rose hips to gain strength and improve health.
Prohibitions on May 26
The Church does not approve of the following on this day:
- swearing and quarrels;
- envy and greed;
- refusing to help those in need.
According to folk traditions, on May 26, you should also avoid:
- sleep in or be lazy—you might “sleep through” your luck;
- replanting plants and flowers—they won’t take root;
- borrow money—the day is considered unlucky for financial matters;
- clean up after sunset, so as not to “take your luck out of the house.”
Folk superstitions for May 26
Our ancestors closely observed nature on Carp Day:
- if ducks are diving and splashing, it will rain;
- crayfish crawl onto the shore — bad weather is coming;
- mosquitoes are swarming—good weather is coming;
- if you hear a cuckoo in the morning—it will be hot;
- rowan trees bloom profusely—there will be a good oat harvest.
A large amount of sorrel was considered a particularly important sign—it promised a warm summer.
Name Day on May 26
Today is the name day for: Alexander, David, Carp, George, Makar, Ivan, and Elena.
It is believed that people born on this day are distinguished by their perseverance, responsibility, and ability to achieve their goals.
As a reminder, on May 25 according to the New Julian calendar, Orthodox believers commemorated John the Baptist, or John the Forerunner. On this day, the third discovery of his holy head is commemorated.
