About the name Andrew
Etymology & meaning
Andrey derives from the Greek Ἀνδρέας (Andreas), from ἀνήρ / ἀνδρός ("man") — "manly", "brave". It is among the very first Christian names, being that of the first-called apostle. Bulgarian uses Андрей, Анди, and the feminine Андреа and Андриана.
History & patron saint
The patron is Saint Andrew the First-Called — brother of the apostle Peter and the first disciple Christ summoned, hence his byname. Tradition links him to preaching in the Balkans and around the Black Sea, which makes him especially close to Bulgarian usage. Andreevden (30 November) opens the winter cycle of feasts, shortly before Nikulden.
Traditions & customs
Andreevden is also known as Mechkinden, the bear's day. The rite of the day is boiling wheat, maize, beans and lentils in one pot — the more grains swell, the more fertile the year will be. The cooked mixture is shared with neighbours and a handful is thrown up the chimney "for the bear". From Andreevden the daylight begins to grow "by a millet grain", which is why Andrew is said to be peering towards spring.
Popularity & notable bearers
Andrey has a steady if more moderate presence in Bulgaria and has been gaining ground among newborns in recent decades alongside the internationally legible Andrea and Andrian. Saint Andrew the First-Called is patron of several other Orthodox nations too, which makes the name readily recognisable outside Bulgaria.
Suitable gifts
As the day is bound to grain and fertility, a jar of home-made preserves, honey or something for the kitchen makes a symbolic gift. Warm winter accessories and an icon of Saint Andrew the First-Called suit equally well.