Orthodox Christians today honor St. Mary Magdalene Martyr Phocas. 

According to religious tradition, people do not light the fire and bake bread in the oven. Anyone disobeying these customs are punished with fire, heat and hail.

According to the scripture, Mary Magdalene was the one who informed the apostles Christ's resurrection. In turn, the Holy Martyr Phocas died in torment for faith in Jesus. In folk tradition, he is responsible for heat and fire.
 

Great fires were said to had been on that day, therefore people did not work in order to protect their houses and fields.

In Moldova, more than 120 thousand women are called Maria, about 1200 are named Magdalena and 51 men are called Phocas.