Saint Antim of Nicomedia commemorated on September 3

September 3 marks the commemoration of Saint Antim, Bishop of Nicomedia, in the Orthodox Church. Antim was a religious leader during a period of intense Christian persecution in the early 4th century. According to religious accounts, he voluntarily surrendered to soldiers and converted many of them to Christianity through his conduct before being executed by sword around 303 AD.

In addition to religious observances, the date is associated with various folk traditions and superstitions. Traditional beliefs suggest that September 3 is an ideal day for deep cleaning the home and discarding unnecessary items to make room for prosperity and avoid poverty. Conversely, folk customs advise against holding weddings or matchmaking ceremonies on this day.