The Orthodox Christians who follow the old church calendar on August 2 observe the Feast of Saint Elijah. The parishioners who attended the service said they came to pray for health, peace and welfare, IPN reports.

“I pray for peace and health, for the health of my children, my family and everyone. Saint Elijah was a famous prophet and we pray to him for peace and for wisdom,” said parishioner Marta Novac.

Margareta Jiverdan said it is a big feast and, as on other feast days, she comes to church to pray for the family, for her children. “We are Christians and must attend the church. I feel pacified after I go to church,” stated the woman.

Doina Maxim said this is a significant feast for her family as her father is called Ilie (Elias) and they celebrate their household day on this day. “I came to pray, to ask for a service and to light a candle for the health of my family,” said the young woman.

“We pray for peace and for our sorrows. Saint Elijah brings rain and rich harvests of corn and wheat,” said Nicolae Victor.

Tamara Pascaru comes to church on feast days and on ordinary days too. “I come to pray for my dreams to come true and for the health of my parents who are sick and who I want to be near us as long as possible. We pray for everyone to be healthy,” stated the woman.

Elijah or Elias was a prophet and a wonder-worker, who brought rain in times of drought. He is considered the protector of harvests. In the history of the Orthodox Church, he remained as an example of faith and courage that is worth being followed.

On this feast day they bless fruit and vegetables in churches. They also bless bee honey and eat it with cucumbers.