Orthodox Church Commemorates Martyr Gordius of Cappadocia and Prophet Malachi on This Day
Gordy's Day: Ancient Rituals to Ward Off Misfortune on January 16
In the traditional folk calendar, January 16 is known as Gordy's Day (the Day of Gordius and Malachi).
Traditions for January 16
- In olden times, this day was considered perilous: to protect livestock, charms were tied to gates to ward off evil spirits, and every crack in the barn was carefully sealed.
- It was customary to cook milk oatmeal and feed it to the cows—and the household would eat it as well.
- People believed that only on this day could one heal those suffering from seizures or the "afflicted" (those under a curse).
- Special attention was to be given to domestic animals: cleaning feeders and cages and tidying up the barn.
- Preparing and eating cottage cheese dishes was thought to bring happiness and prosperity to the home.
What Not to Do on January 16
- Boasting about wealth, health, or children was forbidden—it was believed such pride could lead to losing what one bragged about.
- Working in the evening—or, according to some signs, even after noon—was discouraged.
- Wearing new clothes, sweeping the floor, or taking out the trash was considered ill-advised.
- Venturing into the forest, near bodies of water, or unfamiliar places—especially alone—was to be avoided.
Weather Omens for January 16
- The weather on this day foretells the conditions in March.
- Large white clouds signal an impending blizzard.
- If the sun sets behind a cloud, expect snowfall.
- Frost on the trees means clear skies ahead.
- Bright, twinkling stars promise sunny weather.
