Today, October 18, we celebrate the feast of the Apostle and Evangelist Luke. This day is dedicated to honoring one of the 70 apostles, the author of the Gospel and Acts of the Apostles, who is also considered the first iconographer.
The Chief reports on religious holidays, history, traditions, and signs of October 18, 2025.
Religious Holidays and Their History
- Feast Day of Saint Apostle and Evangelist Luke
The feast of the Apostle and Evangelist Luke, who lived in the 1st century, is celebrated on October 18 in the Orthodox Church. Luke, born in Antioch in Syria, was a doctor and the patron of physicians.
He was a disciple of the Apostle Paul and traveled with him on missionary journeys. Luke did not see Jesus but studied the testimonies of witnesses to write the Gospel and Acts of the Apostles. In his works, he emphasized mercy, love for one's neighbor, and the role of women in Christ's ministry. He is credited with creating the first image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, considered the founder of iconography.
Prayers of the Day
O, holy Apostle and Evangelist of Christ Luke! We turn to you for mercy and healing for our souls and bodies. We ask for wisdom and protection for artists and doctors who glorify the Lord through their work.
Amen
Folk Beliefs and Signs
According to folk tradition, October 18 can predict future weather by the following signs:
- Falling leaves – a sign of a harsh, frosty winter;
- Lack of snow – winter will be delayed;
- Onions eaten on this day are believed to protect against illness for a year.
It was also believed that October 18 is a great day for healing, as Luke, in addition to being an apostle, was also a doctor.
The feast of the Apostle and Evangelist Luke is celebrated on October 18. This day is dedicated to honoring Luke as the author of the Gospel and Acts of the Apostles, the patron of physicians, and the first iconographer. The Ukrainian people recall his mercy, love for one’s neighbor, and the importance of the female role in Christ's ministry. The signs of this day help predict the weather and health for the coming year.