Orthodox Christians celebrate the feast of Saint James the Apostle

The Serbian Orthodox Church celebrates the feast day of Saint James the Apostle, the son of Zebedee and brother of Saint John the Evangelist. According to religious tradition, James was one of the three apostles to whom Jesus revealed his greatest secrets and was present during the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor.

After preaching the Gospel in various lands, including Spain, James was eventually martyred in Jerusalem at the age of 45. His remains were later transported to Spain, where his tomb is said to be a site of miraculous healings.

Local customs associated with this day suggest that unmarried women should wash their faces with cold water at midnight or early in the morning to protect themselves from evil spirits and ensure healthy offspring. Additionally, the day is observed as a time to forgive those who have slandered others and to offer aid to those in need.