February 13

On this day, the liturgical calendars of the Episcopal Church, Roman Catholic Church, and Eastern Orthodox Church commemorate a series of saints including Absalom Jones, Beatrice of Ornacieux, Castor of Karden, and others. Observances may vary by denomination and region, with specific prayers, readings, and hymns dedicated to each figure. The feast highlights the diverse contributions of these saints to Christian heritage, such as missionary work, monastic dedication, and pastoral leadership. Faith communities often hold special services and educational programs to reflect on their examples of faith and service. It is an opportunity for worshippers to draw inspiration from their lives and to learn about the history of the church.

Born into slavery in 1746, Absalom Jones gained freedom and became a prominent abolitionist and religious leader. In 1804, he was ordained as the first African American priest in the Episcopal Church. Jones co-founded the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas in Philadelphia, advocating for religious and civil rights. His legacy includes efforts to end racial discrimination and promote social justice. Services on his feast day honor his contributions to faith, equality, and community leadership.

Saint Beatrice of Ornacieux (1240–1303) entered the Carthusian order and became renowned for her deep humility and compassion. She is remembered for her pilgrimage to Rome and her practice of voluntary poverty to aid the poor. Beatrice’s mystical experiences and letters inspired many, and her feast day invites reflection on selfless service. Monastic communities commemorate her life with prayers and readings. Her legacy endures as a model of contemplative prayer and simple living.

Saint Castor of Karden served as a bishop near Trier and was known for his pastoral care and defense against heresies. Traditions recount his pilgrimages and efforts to strengthen local Christian communities. After his death around 400 AD, his relics became objects of veneration in Karden. Pilgrims visit his shrine to seek spiritual healing and guidance. His feast day is marked by church services and local celebrations in regions of Germany that honor his heritage.

Born in 1522 in Tuscany, Saint Catherine of Ricci entered the Dominican convent at a young age. She experienced visions of Christ’s passion and received the stigmata, gaining fame as a mystic. Catherine offered spiritual counsel to clergy and laity alike, and her letters reveal profound theological insight. She died in 1590 and was canonized in 1737. Her feast day commemorates her mystical experiences, deep prayer life, and impact on Catholic spirituality.

Saint Dyfnog lived in 6th-century Wales and is remembered for his ascetic life and the miraculous healing properties of water at his hermitage. Pilgrims visited his spring seeking cures for ailments, leading to the construction of a church at Llanrhaeadr. Legends tell of his penance and prayers invoking divine grace upon those in need. His feast day invites reflection on the power of faith and nature in spiritual healing. Welsh communities celebrate with pilgrimages and prayer services at sites linked to his legacy.

Saint Ermenilda, daughter of King Eorcenberht of Kent, joined the religious community at Ely and eventually became abbess. She dedicated her life to prayer, charity, and monastic discipline, leading the convent through spiritual and administrative growth. Ermenilda’s familial connections included other notable saints, and her leadership strengthened the Christian presence in Anglo-Saxon England. She died around 700 AD, and her feast day honors her commitment to faith and community service with liturgical celebrations in English churches.

Saint Fulcran served as Bishop of Lodève in southern France during the late 10th and early 11th centuries. Renowned for his devotion to the poor, he dedicated his life to rebuilding churches and caring for the sick. Under his leadership, the Cathedral of Saint-Fulcran became a center of spiritual and social welfare. He established hospitals and supported monastic communities, earning widespread respect for his humility. His feast day invites reflection on service, compassion, and the transformative power of faith.

Born around 1190 in Saxony, Jordan of Saxony succeeded Saint Dominic as head of the Dominican Order in 1222. His extraordinary charisma and teaching attracted hundreds of new members, greatly expanding the Order across Europe. Known for his gentle wisdom and dedication to preaching, he helped establish Dominican provinces in Italy, France, and Germany. Jordan embodied the mendicant spirit of poverty, learning, and evangelization. He died while traveling to Rome in 1237, leaving a legacy of intellectual vigor and missionary commitment.

A soldier by trade, Polyeuctus was martyred in Melitene (modern-day Turkey) around 259 AD after refusing to offer sacrifice to pagan gods. His dramatic conversion and steadfast witness inspired many, including his friend Nearchus, to embrace Christianity. Tradition records his final words urging others to "become Christians and despise the world." His fearless stand exemplified early Christian perseverance under imperial persecution. His feast day highlights themes of courage, conviction, and the power of witness.

On February 13, the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar honors figures such as Saint Martinian the Younger, renowned for his ascetic life, and Saint Catherine the Syrian. The day also recalls historical events like cathedral dedications and the repose of revered monastic elders. Liturgical services feature hymns and readings celebrating virtues of humility, charity, and perseverance. Faithful participate in special prayers for the departed and seek inspiration from the examples of these saints. This observance underscores the depth and richness of Orthodox spirituality and communal memory.