January 31

Holidays & Observances

Christianfeast day:

Domitius (Domice) of Amiens, Francis Xavier Bianchi, Geminianus, John Bosco, Julius of Novara, Blessed Ludovica, Máedóc (Mogue, Aiden), Marcella of Marseille, Marcella of Rome, Samuel Shoemaker(Episcopal Church (USA)), Tysul, Ulphia, Wilgils, January 31 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)

A collective Christian feast day honoring multiple saints and Eastern Orthodox liturgical celebrations on January 31.
On January 31, various Christian traditions commemorate a rich tapestry of saints and holy figures, including Domitius of Amiens, John Bosco, and Blessed Ludovica. In Eastern Orthodox liturgics, this date marks special services and readings venerating these saints. Faithful gather in churches to honor the memory and virtues of each figure through prayers, hymns, and charitable acts. The Episcopal Church in the USA also observes the feast of Samuel Shoemaker. This day reflects the diversity and continuity of Christian worship across denominations.
feast day Domitius (Domice) of Amiens Francis Xavier Bianchi Geminianus John Bosco Julius of Novara Blessed Ludovica Máedóc (Mogue, Aiden) Marcella of Marseille Marcella of Rome Samuel Shoemaker Episcopal Church (USA) Tysul Ulphia Wilgils January 31 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)

Amartithi(Meherabad, India, followers ofMeher Baba)

Amartithi marks the death anniversary of spiritual teacher Meher Baba, observed by his followers in Meherabad, India.
Observed annually at Meherabad, Amartithi commemorates the passing of Meher Baba, an Indian spiritual master revered for his teachings on love and silence. Followers gather at his tomb to offer flowers, sing devotional songs, and share his message of universal love. The day features prayer meetings, reading of his writings, and acts of service in his name. Pilgrims travel from around the world to participate in the solemn remembrance ceremony. Amartithi highlights the enduring impact of Meher Baba's spiritual legacy.
Amartithi Meherabad Meher Baba

Independence Day (Nauru), celebrates independence from Australia in 1968.

Nauru Independence Day commemorates the nation's sovereignty gained from Australia on January 31, 1968.
Celebrated annually on January 31, Independence Day marks Nauru's emergence as the world's smallest republic following British-Australian trusteeship. Citizens participate in flag-raising ceremonies, parades, and cultural performances showcasing traditional song and dance. Official speeches reflect on the challenges and achievements of the island nation since independence. Community feasts feature local cuisine such as coconut fish and sea grapes. The day fosters national pride and unity among Nauruans.
Independence Day (Nauru)

Street Children's Day(Austria)

Street Children's Day in Austria raises awareness and support for children living on the streets.
Observed on January 31, Street Children's Day highlights the plight of vulnerable youth facing homelessness and poverty. Nonprofit organizations, volunteers, and government agencies organize outreach events, donation drives, and public discussions to promote social inclusion. Educational programs aim to inform the public about causes of homelessness and ways to help. Artistic performances and photo exhibitions share personal stories of street-connected children. The day encourages community action and policy initiatives to improve the welfare of at-risk youth.
Street Children's Day Austria

Domitius (Domice) of Amiens

Feast day of Saint Domitius of Amiens, a 3rd-century martyr revered for his steadfast faith.
Saint Domitius served as a leader in the early Church, guiding the faithful under difficult circumstances. His martyrdom in Amiens has inspired generations of Christians with his courage and devotion. Pilgrims visit shrines dedicated to him and participate in liturgies recalling his sacrifice. Art and iconography often depict him with symbols of martyrdom such as a palm branch. His legacy endures as a testament to unwavering belief in the face of persecution.
Domitius (Domice) of Amiens

Francis Xavier Bianchi

Feast day of Saint Francis Xavier Bianchi, an 18th-century Italian priest known for his piety and miraculous healings.
Born in Italy in 1743, Francis Xavier Bianchi joined the Barnabite order and became known for his deep prayer life and pastoral care. He was reputed to have performed miracles, particularly in healing the sick, earning widespread veneration. After his death in 1815, he was beatified in 1839 and canonized in 1951 by Pope Pius XII. Devotees commemorate his life through masses, novenas, and devotion to his intercession. His feast day on January 31 invites reflection on spiritual discipline and compassionate service.
Francis Xavier Bianchi

Geminianus

Feast day of Saint Geminianus, a 4th-century bishop of Modena renowned for his leadership and miracles.
Saint Geminianus served as bishop of Modena during the late Roman Empire and was celebrated for his pastoral care and charitable works. According to tradition, he miraculously defended the city from invading forces through prayer. Churches across northern Italy bear his name, and many relics are preserved in Modena Cathedral. On January 31, the faithful attend special liturgies and processions in his honor. His example underscores the impact of faith-driven leadership in community life.
Geminianus

John Bosco

Feast day of Saint John Bosco, the 19th-century Italian priest who founded the Salesian order to support disadvantaged youth.
Born in 1815, John Bosco dedicated his life to the education and welfare of poor and orphaned children in Turin. He established the Salesian Society to provide schooling, vocational training, and spiritual guidance. Known for his loving approach called the 'Preventive System,' he emphasized kindness and reason over punishment. Devotees celebrate his feast with masses, youth gatherings, and charitable activities reflecting his ethos. John Bosco's legacy lives on through Salesian schools and youth centers worldwide.
John Bosco

Julius of Novara

Feast day of Saint Julius of Novara, an early Christian missionary credited with founding churches around Lake Orta.
Saint Julius of Novara, believed to have lived in the 4th century, evangelized the region around Lake Orta and established dozens of churches. His devotion and missionary zeal are commemorated with pilgrimages to his shrine on Isola San Giulio. Legends tell of his healing miracles and the construction of small oratories in remote mountain villages. On January 31, pilgrims join liturgical celebrations and retrace his traditional routes. His life symbolizes the spread of Christianity through personal sacrifice and faith.
Julius of Novara

Blessed Ludovica

Feast day of Blessed Ludovica, honored for her virtuous life and dedication in the Catholic tradition.
Blessed Ludovica, beatified for her selfless service and spiritual devotion, is remembered on January 31. Though details of her life vary by region, she is celebrated for caring for the poor and inspiring communities with her humility. Many parishes hold special masses and charitable events in her honor. Artistic representations often show her in acts of charity, emphasizing her role as a model of Christian compassion. Her commemoration encourages faithful reflection on living a life of service.
Blessed Ludovica

Máedóc (Mogue, Aiden)

Feast day of Saint Máedóc (also known as Mogue or Aiden), a 7th-century Irish abbot and monastic founder celebrated for his piety and miracles.
Saint Máedóc, known as Mogue or Aiden, lived in 7th-century Ireland and is revered as the founder of several monasteries, including those at Ferns and Clonmore. Remembered for his humility and care for the poor, Máedóc was reputed to perform miracles of healing and protection. His legacy endured through hagiographies that highlight his role in spreading Christianity across Ireland. Celebrated on January 31st, his feast day is observed by various Christian communities, especially in Ireland. The day provides an opportunity to reflect on the power of faith and monastic heritage in early medieval Europe.
Máedóc (Mogue, Aiden)

Marcella of Marseille

Feast day of Saint Marcella of Marseille, honored for her devotion and service in early Christian Gaul.
Saint Marcella of Marseille is commemorated on January 31st, particularly in local traditions of southern France. Little historical information has survived about her life, but she is venerated for her unwavering faith and charitable works within her community. Legends describe her as a dedicated patron of the poor and a model of Christian piety during the early medieval period. Her feast provides an opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of local saints in Gaul and the role of women in the early Church. Celebrations often include liturgical prayers and reflections on service and devotion.
Marcella of Marseille