Venerable Praskeva of Epibates, also known as Saint Petka of Bulgaria, is held in high esteem by Orthodox Christians in this country. Her patron saint’s day falls on October 14, known in popular tradition as Petkovden. Venerable Paraskeva of Epibates lived in the 10th and the 11th century AD. After the death of her parents, who were Bulgarians, she followed her brother’s example and devoted herself to serving God. She left her parental home and went to the Jordan desert. An angel of God once appeared to her and told her to leave the wilderness and return to her fatherland to hand over the body to the earth and depart to the Lord.
Bulgarians honor St. Petka as the patron saint of women, home and family. In popular beliefs, St. Petka is the protector of fertility (both in humans and animals).
According to the folklore calendar, Petkovden (marked on October 14) and Dimitrovden (St. Demetrius Day- October 26) marks the end of the agricultural year. The twelve days between Petkovden and Dimitrovden, are a kind of sacred transition between the old and the new year and marks the beginning of various family celebrations.
More legends of St. Petka of Bulgaria and the way people revere this patron saint can be found in Radio Bulgaria’s article: On October 14, Bulgarian Orthodox Church pays homage to St. Petka.
Editing by: Elena Karkalanova
English version: Kostadin Atanasov
On August 6, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church celebrates one of the twelve great feasts of the Lord – the Transfiguration of the Lord. It is connected with one of the most important evangelical events – the appearance of Jesus Christ in..
Three days in mid-July are given special attention in the Bulgarian calendar. 15, 16 and 17 July are known as the Dog Days or Goreshtnitsi (from goreshto, meaning 'hot') and are considered to be the hottest time of the year in Bulgaria. During this..
Verka Siderova, the golden voice of Bulgaria and Dobrud zh a, has completed her earthly journey at the age of 99. The sad news was announced by the singer's family. Born on April 26, 1926 in Dobrich (Northeastern..
On August 6, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church celebrates one of the twelve great feasts of the Lord – the Transfiguration of the Lord. It..
+359 2 9336 661