The Orthodox Christians who follow the Julian calendar observe the Feast of Saint John the Baptist on January 20. It is celebrated the next day after the Baptism of Jesus (Epiphany) and closes the series of winter holidays, IPN reports.
According to the Scriptures, Saint John was the son of Rabin Zechariah and pious Elisabeth, while his birth was announced by angels. He grew up in the desert, preparing himself for his mission by prayer and fasting. He lived there until the age of 30, when God called him to preach to the Jewish people. Sent to announce the coming of Jesus, John accomplished his mission by baptizing Jesus in the Jordan River. John died as a martyr, his head being cut by order of King Herod Antipas.
In the morning of this feast day, the parishioners go church to attend the service and pray for health. Popular tradition says the Feast of Saint John the Baptist is a reason for joy and those who will not amuse themselves on this day will be said all year round.
Those who bear the name John celebrate their name day. Many families also celebrate the religious day of the house. According to the Public Services Agency, in Moldova there are 105,500 men named Ion (John), 57,600 men named Ivan, 619 men called Ioan, 351 men called Ionel and 137 men named Nelu. There are also over 9, 600 women called Ioana (4,733), Ionela (4,377), Ivana (497), Nela (26), and Ivanca (23).
