4 April 2026: Lazarus Saturday and the mysterious crane ritual
UNIAN reports on why people are advised to ‘roll around in the grass’ today and what role cranes play.
The spiritual significance of the day
On Lazarus Saturday, believers commemorate the victory of life over death. Today also honours Saint Joseph the Hymnographer, who, despite being exiled (notably to Kherson in Ukraine), composed over 300 church hymns that are still sung in churches to this day.
A mysterious ritual for health
According to folk beliefs, true spring arrives on 4 April, ‘brought on the wings’ of cranes. There is an interesting custom: upon seeing the first crane in the sky, one must roll over seven times on the grass from side to side. It was believed that such a simple ritual would protect one’s back from pain during heavy field work for the entire season.
What to do today:
-
Bring a willow branch: You can now take willow twigs to the church for blessing.
-
Relaxation of the fast: Lazarus Saturday is the only day during Lent when fish roe is permitted. You may also consume oil, vegetables and nuts.
-
Alder selection: In ancient times, on this day, people chose alder for the construction of wells, as they believed in its special power.
