PRAYER TO SAINT PETKA

Saint Petka, commemorated on October 27, is one of the most revered protectors of women. In many regions, she is also celebrated as a patron saint, and her day is traditionally observed with fasting on oil.

Saint Petka is primarily known as the protector of women and a helper to the sick, hungry, and poor. Her sacred relics rest in the Romanian city of Iași. Interestingly, her relics were once transported from Constantinople to Trnovo, then back to Constantinople, later to Belgrade, and finally arrived in Iași, where they remain today due to various historical events.

In the 14th century, Princess Milica and nun Jefimija petitioned the sultan to release Saint Petka’s relics, underscoring the close connection between the saint and the Serbian people.

On the eve of this significant holiday, it is customary to spend time in prayer after a peaceful family dinner. After crossing themselves three times, family members listen as the head of the household recites the following prayer dedicated to Saint Petka.

Prayer to Saint Petka

"Help us, dear God, Saint Petka, and Saint Nedelja, forgive us if we have erred; help me and guard me, dear God, from unseen misfortunes; protect me from harmful thoughts; bless the coming day; grant, dear God, health, peaceful sleep, pure dreams filled with rosemary and basil; grant, dear God, health, happiness, and prosperity, that we may greet tomorrow with life and strength!"

In this tradition, only the head of the household recites the prayer, while women and children cross themselves three times. After the prayer, everyone goes to sleep, always with their head turned toward the east. Traditionally, one hand is placed under the head and the other outstretched, with everyone lying on their right side.