In the folk tradition, this day was called Gabriel's Summer. It was believed that on this day one should observe the birds. The number of birds counted in the sky would indicate how many warm days there would be in August. **What is remembered in the Church on July 26, 2026** Archangel Gabriel is one of the most revered angels. It is no coincidence that he is remembered on two different days. Another of his feasts is celebrated the day after the Annunciation of the Most Holy Theotokos, where he is one of the main figures. This day was celebrated on April 8, 2026. What has Archangel Gabriel become famous for? Many of his deeds are remembered and celebrated from century to century. As we have already mentioned, it was he whom the Lord sent to the Virgin Mary to announce the news of her miraculous birth — as a virgin — of the Son of God in nine months. He also told her betrothed Joseph about it. Before that, he taught Moses, who led the people of Israel away from the wrath of the Egyptian pharaoh, writing and sciences, and gave him knowledge of the past and future of his people. He also explained his miraculous visions to the prophet Daniel. He foretold Saint Anna and the righteous Joachim that soon she would give birth to a virgin who would become the mother of the Son of the Lord. He foretold the elderly Elizabeth that she would be the mother of John the Baptist, who would be the forerunner of the Savior's appearance to the world — the son of the Virgin Mary. He also told her husband Zacharias. After the birth of Jesus, he announced this event to the shepherds and the Magi, who were the first to come to worship the God-Child. He also appeared to Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane when he prayed that this cup might pass from him. Later, he appeared to the myrrh-bearing women to announce the resurrection of Jesus. He also informed the Theotokos about her impending dormition. Thus, Gabriel became a participant in a vast number of fateful events in the history of Christianity. **The meaning of the holiday** Archangel Gabriel is considered not only the herald of great events but also an intercessor for each of us before the Lord. **What people pray to Archangel Gabriel for** He is regarded as the protector of all people. He is capable of punishing deceivers and criminals and guiding the lost back to the right path. People ask him for the restoration of well-being in the family, for liberation from fears and intrusive thoughts. They also ask him for the birth of children and healing from illnesses. **Folk weather signs** - If it smells like rain on this day, it will likely be dry instead. - The sun indicates good news. - Rooks gather in flocks — autumn will be early. - If there is no rain on this day, autumn will also be dry. - Fish swimming in circles — indicates bad weather. **What can be done on July 26, 2026** - It is necessary to go to the temple. - A great day for harvesting. - The day should be dedicated to rest or light work. - One should be open with interlocutors. - It is advisable to bake pies and share them with everyone. **What cannot be done on July 26, 2026** - It is bad to be idle and especially lazy if someone needs help. - It is forbidden to lend or borrow money. - It is categorically forbidden to throw away bread. - Do not go to the bathhouse on this day. - It is very dangerous to be greedy.