Anna is one of the most common names in the world. Some sources even claim to be the most common. Along with the name Mary, it is found in many languages, and all because, according to biblical tradition, Anna was the mother of Mary, who gave birth to Christ. It is possible that in biblical times the name Anna was also very popular, since two more Anna are mentioned in the scripture: the mother of the prophet Samuel and Anna the Prophet, daughter of Fanuilov.
Due to its great popularity not only these days, but also in antiquity, the name was carried by many saints, so Anna's nameday can be celebrated almost every month of the year. Some dates also “doubled” due to the transition of the calendar to a new style (similarly, Old New Year is celebrated in Russia ). Of course, if you are going to celebrate your name day, you need to stick to one date.
Previously, when a child was named after a certain saint, the icon of this saint must have been at home, and when to celebrate Anna's name day, it was known from the very beginning. Now, when the parents call the child their favorite name, first you have to find out which of the saints protects you. There are several options for what to do.
First, you can choose a patron saint on your own or in consultation with a confessor. Some places have their own, most revered, saints. For example, Anna Kashinskaya was venerated in the Tver provincial diocese for several centuries, even though they tried to decanonize her. Now Anna Kashinskaya is commemorated on June 25 and October 15 (new style).
The second thing you can do is turn to your baptismal certificate. Recall that in some cases, when a person’s name is not included in the calendar, another baptismal name is given during baptism. Having found out in honor of which saint the name given at baptism was given, you will understand when it is necessary to celebrate name days. Anna and Mary are special names in this regard, as they are sometimes given to weak babies in order to invoke the special mercy of God and to promote a speedy recovery. In some cases, it happens that at baptism they give the name of the saint who is remembered that day, then the name day coincides with the day of the Angel.
The third is simply to choose Anna’s name day, the date of which is closest to your birthday.
So, the most popular dates in the whole world (and in our country):
- December 9 and 22 - the name day of Anna, dedicated to the conception of the Righteous Anna of her daughter - the Blessed Virgin Mary;
- July 25 and September 9 (August 7 and September 22 according to the old style) also celebrate birthday in honor of this saint;
- November 20 - the birthday of Anna of Persia
- January 21 and July 5 recall Anna of Rome;
- February 10 - Rev. Princess Anna of Novgorod.
It should be noted that the celebration of a name day in honor of the patron saint should take place in a quiet, calm atmosphere. Many of the saints now revered have suffered martyrdom, and the day of the name day often coincides with the day commemorating the death of the saint. Almost the only exception is the name day of Anna the Righteous, the days when the conception of the Virgin is celebrated.