The holy day is observed on November 30. The day is the feast day of Andrew, the Apostle. Saint Andrew’s day is also known as Andermas. The day is also observed as the national day of Scotland. Saint Andrew is a renowned saint of countries like Cyprus, Scotland, Greece, Romania, Russia, Ukraine, , San Andres Island (Colombia), Saint Andrew (Barbados), and Tenerife. In Romania, there is a holiday on Saint Andrew’s Day.
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Global Presence of the Day
There are various forms in which the day is celebrated all around the globe. Such as-
- Germany
In Germany, the eve of Saint Andrew’s day is observed as Andreasnacht.
- Poland
Andrzejki is the festivity celebrated all across Poland on 30th November.
- Austria
Austria observes a special prayer on the occasion named ‘Andreasgebet.’
- Russia
Andrew’s night, also known as ‘Андреева ночь’ celebrated on this day.
The day is majorly a part of Scottish culture. The day marks the inception of winters’ festival season in the country which includes Saint Andrew’s Day, Hogmanay, and Burns Night.
Belief
Jesus Christ had twelve disciples. Among whom, Saint Andrew was one. It is believed that just like his teacher; Saint Andrew was also killed to follow his belief. However, he refused to be crucified against the same symbol as of Jesus as a mark of respect. He was then crucified against a cross. The cross became his symbol, later.
Scottish Celebrations
Saint Andrew is also remembered as the national saint of Scotland. The day is marked with the festive spirit, celebrations, cheerfulness, and hospitality.
The capital of Scotland, Glasgow, is the epicenter of these celebrations. There are flashlight processions all over the city to show their dedication towards the Saint. To remember the generous nature, charities are done in which people participate in large numbers.
It has been a long time since Scotland zealously celebrates the day; 1000 AD to be precise. However, the irony has it, that Saint Andrew never came to visit Scotland during his lifetime.
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