New Year's Day (January 1st) Nowy Rok
New Year's Day was always a day of great joy in Poland.  Traditionally it was a day when the royalty and wealthy noblemen would shower generously their subjects and vassals with gifts and mementos.  Children extended greetings expressed in original verses to their parents and superiors, and college students did the same to their landlords who in turn rewarded them with gifts.  One expression of well-wishing was: "Bog cie stykaj" - "God protect you."  In another ancient custom peasants were wont to shower oats upon each other as a symbol of golden harvest.  In the homes there was bread on the table for unexpected guests or for the poor.  On January 1st also began the "caroling of the clergy" - "Koledowanie duchowienstwa."  Accompanied by the organist and altar boy, the pastor would visit each home in his parish.  Here the occupants would prepare a table covered with a white table cloth, on it a crucifix, two candles, holy water and an aspergil.  As the priest entered, he would wish all a Happy New Year, bless the home, distribute holy pictures, quiz the children, console the sorrowful, encourage and pray for the infirm, and wish all God's blessings