8 December – Day of Saint Clement of Ohrid
In Macedonia, 8 December is a national holiday dedicated to Saint Clement of Ohrid – the first Slavic writer, educator and bishop, as well as the founder of the renowned Ohrid Literary School. Together with St. Naum, he was the most significant disciple of Saints Cyril and Methodius and their most persistent follower in the mission to preserve and affirm the Slavonic language in Great Moravia.
It is believed that St Clement shaped the Cyrillic alphabet, creating it on the foundations of the Greek alphabet but adapting it to the sound system of the Slavic peoples.
Besides being a spiritual father and teacher, Clement also left behind a rich literary legacy. Today, his name is borne by numerous institutions, churches and schools – from the National and University Library, the Faculty of Education at UCM and the Cathedral in Skopje to the University in Bitola. In Macedonia, the 'St. Clement of Ohrid' state award is also presented for significant achievements in education, culture, science and healthcare.
Saint Clement is also the patron saint of Ohrid. According to folk tradition, his spirit appeared whenever the city was in danger and protected it from misfortune.
Happy holiday!
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