On August 28, we celebrate the memory of Reverend Moses Murin.
Saint Moses was an Ethiopian and that is why he was called Murin, i.e. The black one. He lived in the IV century. In his youth he was a slave of a rich landowner, but he ran away from his master and joined a band of robbers. Because of his great physical strength, he soon became their leader. But once, persecuted by the authorities for his many crimes, he went and hid in the desert where hermit monks lived.
A few days of Moses’ association with these holy men made him realize how pernicious the path he had been walking in recent years was. He was overshadowed by God’s grace, gradually came to deep repentance and wished to atone for his great sins. His inner change was radical and very soon he reached the humility and repentance of the great fathers of the desert. He accepted holy baptism and continued to strive with great humility and self-condemnation for his previous sinful life. According to the tradition, he later became a priest. Until his last breath, he wept bitterly for his sins and considered himself inferior not only to other people, but also to unreasonable creatures.
Out of humility, the venerable Moses shunned the glory and honors of people and therefore tried not to communicate with the laity who visited him, although he was hospitable at heart. But he readily accepted all the brothers from the surrounding fasts and hermitages who came to him for advice and support in the monastic endeavor. He also imposed such a vow: he went out at night, collected the empty vessels left by the cells of the hermits and brought them water from a distant well.
In about the year 400, when he was 75 years old, Berber robbers broke into the cave where he was asceticing and killed him with knives along with six of his fellow monks.
The black saint Moses Murin is also revered as the patron saint of Africans.
In our country – traditions and customs
On this day, believers do not fast, but those who want to cleanse their mind, get rid of addictions or passions (alcohol, as well as rid their heart of vicious passion or unrequited love), it is recommended not to eat anything until sunset . It is also recommended to stop drinking alcohol and not to smoke. Children should not be left alone on this day.
On this day, traditionally, it is not recommended to get married or to solve any family-related issues, as this would lead to unnecessary troubles and quarrels.
The church traditionally holds Sunday services, which are recommended to visit. Parishioners can also say prayers at home or in holy places specially designated for this. They can ask Saint Moses for blessing and help in solving their problems. It is especially important on this day to pray for those who have addictions.
On this day, you can and should collect and buy honey: it will be useful and fresh throughout the year. You can make mead and other products from honey.
Also, on this day, it is recommended that women take a break and not overwork, then they will keep their beauty and health longer.
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