Saints Constantine and Helen – traditions, customs and superstitions

Every year on May 21, the Orthodox Christians celebrate Saints Constantine and Helen (Constantin si Elena). In traditional calendar, this event is known as Constantine Starling (Constantin Graur) or Cubs’ Constantine (Constantin al Puilor). Elders say that on this day birds teach their offspring to fly. May 21 is also an occasion for Romanians to celebrate their name day.

Known as those who made Christians free, the two emperors Constantine and Helen became true protectors of the Christians. During his reign, Emperor Constantine adopted a series of measures in favor of the Church and priests. They say his mother, Queen Helena,used to help oppressed Christians.

In some parts of the country, there are some unusual customs on this day, based on the traditional superstitions:

• The farm workers do not labour, to prevent the damage of the standing crop field caused by the birds.
• They also say that whoever plants corn, oats or millet after Constantine and Helen Day it will dry out.
• Vine growers believe that if they work in the vineyard on Saints Constantine and Helen’s day, starlings will eat the harvest.
• Shepherds decide on May 21 the person who will be in charge and where they’ll place their sheepfolds. They also start a big fire and they pass through the sheep, thus protecting them from dangers, as long as they stay in the sheepfold.
• To protect the households from evil, women spray everywhere with holy water and incense.