The Serbian Orthodox Church and its faithful today celebrate the Holy Martyrs Cosmas and Damian, better known as the Holy Healers or Vrači.
Cosmas and Damian were brothers from Asia, whose mother was a Christian and father a pagan. Although their father did not teach them Christian rules, the future wonderworkers followed their mother, and after their father’s death, they dedicated themselves to serving Jesus Christ alongside her.
The brothers discovered they had received a gift from God for healing people, whether it was a sick body or spirit. Records show that Saint Cosmas and Damian cured many of various diseases and cast out spirits from people. They were known for never charging anyone for their healing services, and for their mantra: “Freely you received, freely give.” Because of this, the people called them “the Unmercenaries.”
After their death, they were buried as they lived—together, in the town of Fereman. Legend says they continued to perform miracles even after death, and that many believers were healed after venerating their relics. Therefore, the belief persists to this day that these saints are invoked for help with every illness and trouble.
The word “vračati” means to heal, thus the Holy Healers are considered the patron saints of doctors. Many churches, monasteries, and hospitals are dedicated to Saint Cosmas and Damian, and on this day, it is believed that the wonderworking brothers heal the sick who sincerely pray to them.
Customs and Beliefs
The elderly say that this holiday should be spent with loved ones and in the circle of closest family, so the day is not suitable for travel. The people say that this is a day dedicated to prayers for health and the healing of the sick.
“Holy Unmercenaries and Wonderworkers, Cosmas and Damian, heal our infirmities; freely you received the gift of healing, freely give it to us.“
This prayer should be recited starting today, for 40 consecutive days, and you will be as healthy as you believe it can help you.
Also, on the feast of the Holy Healers, the sick make a vow to Saint Cosmas and Damian that they will particularly celebrate them after their recovery. It is customary for healthy people on this day to pray to God and the Healers for the health of their loved ones, and it is also believed that Saint Cosmas and Damian protect against lightning strikes.
The Holy Healers are celebrated twice a year, on November 14 and July 14.
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Source: Kurir; Foto: Ilustracija