The Orthodox Christians following the Julian Calendar observe the Feast of Saint John the Baptist on January 20. It is celebrated the next day after the Baptism of Jesus and closes the row of winter holidays. Christians commonly refer to John as the precursor or forerunner of Jesus, since John announced Jesus’ coming.

Priest Andrei Pirgaru, of Great Martyr Saint Dumitru Church situated in Chetrosu village of Anenii Noi district, has told IPN that Saint John was the son of Rabin Zechariah and pious Elisabeth, while his birth was announced by angels. He grew up in the desert, preparing himself for his mission by prayer and fasting. He lived there until the age of 30, when God called him to preach to the Jewish people. Sent to announce the coming of Jesus, John accomplished his mission by baptizing Jesus in the Jordan River. John died as a martyr, his head being cut by order of King Herod Antipas.

Those who bear the name John celebrate their name day today. Many families also celebrate the day of the house. According to the state documentation company Registru, in Moldova there are 108,000 men named Ion (John), over 60,000 men called Ivan and almost 600 men named Ioan. 318 men are registered as Ionel. There are also 5,000 women called Ioana and over 3,000 women or girls named Ionela.

On the Baptism of Jesus or Epiphany, observed on January 19, priests hold services and bless the water. It is said that the water blessed on Epiphany has miraculous powers. It remains fresh and with a pleasant taste for a long period of time.