In November 2026, Ukrainian believers will observe three significant church holidays whose dates have shifted in recent years due to the adoption of the new calendar style. According to the current church calendar, the Synaxis of the Archangel Michael and the Other Bodeless Powers falls on November 8, the commemoration of the Holy Great Martyr Kateryna is on November 24, and the feast of the Holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called is on November 30. These dates are confirmed by the consolidated religious calendar for 2026, which compiles calendars of various Christian denominations, and these are the dates to keep in mind so as not to miss the holidays and to congratulate loved ones on their name days. Details about each day and why they now fall on different dates are provided by the Ukrainian lifestyle project Styler (RBC-Ukraine) in their original article.
November 8 — Mykhailo's Day and the Synaxis of Archangel Michael
On November 8, the Orthodox Church of Ukraine honors the Synaxis of the Archangel Michael and other Bodeless Powers. In the Christian tradition, Archangel Michael is considered the leader of the heavenly host, fighting against evil, and is therefore revered as a defender and patron. In folk tradition, Mykhailo's Day was historically associated with the completion of autumn agricultural work and the beginning of the winter period. On this day, men named Mykhailo receive name day greetings, and believers turn to the archangel in prayers asking for protection, strength, and help in difficult circumstances.
November 24 — Feast of the Holy Great Martyr Kateryna
The memory of the Holy Great Martyr Kateryna, who according to church tradition lived in Alexandria and suffered for her faith, is honored by Christians on November 24. Saint Kateryna is traditionally seen as a symbol of wisdom, courage, and steadfast convictions. In Ukrainian culture, this day is also associated with ancient customs and youth evening gatherings: in folk tradition, Kateryna's feast was considered one of the days for girls to divine their future marriage, although such customs are not part of church worship. On November 24, women named Kateryna are congratulated on their name days.
November 30 — Feast of the Apostle Andrew the First-Called
November 30 marks the feast of the Holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called. According to Christian tradition, Andrew was one of the first disciples of Jesus Christ, which is why he received the name First-Called. In Ukraine, Apostle Andrew holds special significance: according to church tradition, he preached on the lands where Kievan Rus subsequently emerged. Ancient Ukrainian customs are also connected with his name, including Andrew's evening gatherings traditionally held on the eve of the holiday. On November 30, men named Andriy are congratulated on their name days, and for believers, this day is an occasion to honor the apostle and remember his missionary work.
Why the Dates Shifted: Transition to the New Calendar Style
The change in familiar dates is linked to the calendar reform. Starting September 1, 2023, the Orthodox Church of Ukraine switched to the revised Julian calendar for fixed holidays, and the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church also transitioned to the new style for fixed dates using the Gregorian calendar. As a result, a number of familiar holidays are now celebrated 13 days earlier than under the old Julian calendar: Mykhailo's Day previously fell on November 21, Kateryna's Day on December 7, and Andrew the First-Called on December 13.
Important Caveat for Believers
When planning to attend worship services, it is worth considering that some communities continue to follow the old calendar style. Therefore, the actual celebration dates in a specific parish may vary depending on church tradition. Before celebrating name days or planning a church visit, it is recommended to check with your community's calendar to avoid mistakes with the date.
