Orthodox Christians following old calendar celebrate St Andrew

The Orthodox Christians who follow the Julian calendar on December 13 observe the feast of Saint Andrew the Apostle, who is also named the First-called. Contacted by Info-Prim Neo, priest Octavian Mosin of “Meeting God” Church of the State University, said that Saint Andrew brought Christianity to this part of the world that includes Moldova. According to the priest, there are many superstitions and traditions related to this feast, especially in rural areas. They combine pagan and Christian elements. The Church is against any magic and urges the faithful to take communion and to participate in the Saint Liturgy service on this day. Octavian Mosin also said that after condemned to death, Saint Andrew was crucified on a cross in the form of ‘X’ with the head downwards. It was called the Cross of Saint Andrew. This form of cross is nowadays present on the flags of Scotland, Ireland, and the Russian Military Fleet. Andrew is considered the patron saint of the Roman Orthodox Church and the spiritual patron of Romania. On the day of this feast, the fasting Orthodox Christians are allowed to eat fish and drink wine.