Today, several literally bright names have an occasion to celebrate. On March 20, the Orthodox Church honors the memory of St. Martyr Photina. Svetla, Svetlana, Svetlozara and Svetlozar celebrate their name day. The name is of Greek origin and means light, writes BLITZ.
In church texts, the saint is known as St. Martyr Photina the Samaritan. St. Martyr Photina was the woman with whom the Savior spoke at Jacob's Well.
She was a fearless Samaritan who preached the Gospel at a difficult time for Christianity - during the time of Emperor Nicephorus. According to some folk beliefs, a prayer addressed to St. Photina, heals from various diseases.
The saint is also revered by the people as a healer of fever. In many villages and towns in Russia, prayers are even served to her.