March 10

Pope Simplicius served as bishop of Rome from 468 until his death in 483, leading the Western Church during the decline of the Western Roman Empire. Facing the aftermath of barbarian invasions and political fragmentation, he worked to protect church properties and uphold orthodox doctrine. He negotiated with Gothic kings and arranged for the restoration of churches in Rome. His papacy saw efforts to strengthen ecclesiastical discipline and support the clergy. Simplicius was later canonized, and his feast day is celebrated on March 10. His leadership laid foundations for the medieval papacy’s temporal and spiritual authority.

Born in Vienna, Agnes Blannbekin became a Franciscan tertiary known for profound mystical visions. She dictated her experiences to a confessor, producing texts that describe dialogues with Christ, the Virgin Mary, and angels. Her revelations emphasized humility, charity, and the passion of Christ. Despite living in poverty, she drew spiritual followers and was celebrated for her holiness. Her works offer rare insight into female mysticism in the 14th century. Though never officially canonized, she was revered as Blessed Agnes and her feast is observed by some Franciscan communities.

Born circa 1480, Balthasar Hübmaier became a leading figure in the Radical Reformation, championing adult baptism. He studied law and theology, eventually rejecting infant baptism and aligning with Swiss Anabaptists. Hübmaier’s writings defended religious liberty and the separation of church and state. In 1527 he returned to Moravia to found an Anabaptist congregation in Nikolsburg. He was arrested in Vienna and burned at the stake in 1528 for his theological views. His martyrdom and works influenced later Anabaptist traditions and Baptist movements.

Born in 1817 in Metz, Marie-Eugénie de Jésus felt a calling to religious life from a young age. In 1839 she established the Congregation of the Religious of the Assumption in Paris. Her order focused on education for young women and nursing of the poor and sick. Deeply influenced by Ignatian spirituality, she emphasized contemplation and active service. Under her guidance, the congregation expanded across Europe and North America. Beatified in 1934 and canonized in 1951, she is celebrated for her compassionate leadership.