Artem Zmeevik. What Can and Cannot Be Done by Orthodox Christians in Latvia on September 25, 2026?

On September 25, 2026, the martyr Autonom is commemorated, and on this day, the last remembrance of the great feast — the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos — occurs. In honor of this, churches recall the parable of the birth of the Virgin Mary. This day is popularly called Artem Zmeevik, having transformed the obscure name of the saint as a reminder that during this period, snakes crawl into their burrows and go into hibernation. **Historical Note** Autonom lived in the late III – early IV century during the reign of the pagan emperor Diocletian. Autonom was a bishop in the city of Preneste (territory of present-day Italy). With the intensification of persecutions, he left his homeland and moved to the Bithynian village of Sorae (northwest Anatolia in Asia Minor, then part of the Roman Empire). He settled in the house of the pious Cornelius. Soon, Cornelius accepted baptism from Autonom. Autonom baptized not only him but many others as well. He preached extensively, and soon a community formed around him. Together with his numerous flock, he built a church in honor of Archangel Michael, where he appointed Cornelius as deacon. He himself went further to preach, visiting Lycaonia and Isauria. After traveling for several years, he returned to Sorae, where he ordained Cornelius as bishop, and he moved to Limnae, where there were many pagans. Thanks to his preaching, the inhabitants gradually converted to Christ, and together they decided to destroy the pagan temple. The angry priests of that place decided to take revenge on Autonom for this. They burst into the church of Archangel Michael right during the service and killed him at the altar. Thus, he became stained with martyr's blood. A new church was built on that site during the reign of Emperor Constantine. It was later abandoned, with services moved to another location. But decades later, the relics of the saint were found incorrupt, and a church of Saint Autonom was erected at the site of their discovery. **Meaning of the Holiday** One should not be afraid and should boldly carry their faith to everyone around. **Folk Weather Signs** - If all the leaves have fallen from the trees, winter will be warm; if some remain, it will be frosty. - Frost on the grass in the morning means the day will be dry and clear. - A light, prolonged rain indicates prolonged bad weather. - Many clouds predict imminent snowfall. **What Can Be Done on September 25, 2026** - A great day for walking. - The gathering and preparation of rowan berries continues. - It is customary to engage in charity and do good deeds. **What Cannot Be Done on September 25, 2026** - One should not work too much or too hard. - One should not go into the forest without a purpose.