November, the Mid-Sower

November is traditionally considered a month dedicated to farmers. Among the many urgent agricultural tasks of this month, sowing cereals is particularly important. Because of this, November has acquired several names, including Sporias, Spartós, Sporitis, Sporeas, Sporiaris, or Mesosporitis (Mid-Sower).

The name Mesosporitis comes from the feast of the Virgin Mary Mesosporitissa, who is also considered a protector of farmers. This feast is associated with the Presentation of the Virgin Mary to the Temple, celebrated on November 21. During this period, farmers are typically in the middle of their sowing season, and it is said that by this date, they should have sown at least half of their crops.

The Virgin Mesosporitissa marks the beginning of the earth’s renewal cycle. The land “opens its womb” to receive the seed and, within a week, begins to sprout—symbolizing life, fertility, and the earth’s eternal strength to nourish those who respect it. According to tradition, on this day, people prepare a dish called polysporia (a mix of boiled cereals and legumes) and bring it to the church for blessing. The whole family then eats from it, wishing for a fruitful harvest. It is also believed that crops sown before November 21 germinate faster.

In some regions, due to varying climatic conditions, sowing does not happen on the same dates. In such cases, the Virgin Mary is referred to as Aposporitissa (indicating the end of the sowing season).

On the island of Lemnos, November 21 is a significant date for the farming and livestock communities, as a large portion of the population is engaged in agriculture. Festivities and celebrations are held in her honor.

Another important feast of the month is that of Saint George the Sower (Agios Georgios tou Sporou), also known as Sporaris, on November 3. This day commemorates the translation of the saint’s relics and is considered the official start of the grain sowing season.

On this day, farmers traditionally brought offerings to the church, praying for rainfall and a successful harvest. Many would also bring seeds to be blessed, later mixing them with the rest of their supply, believing that this would ensure a bountiful crop.