March 10

The Christian feast day on March 10 brings together remembrances of a diverse group of saints and holy figures from Christian history, including Attala and John Ogilvie. Attala, a disciple of Saint Columbanus, is remembered for his leadership at Bobbio Abbey in the 7th century. John Ogilvie, a Scottish Jesuit priest, was martyred in 1615 for his steadfast faith. Macarius of Jerusalem served as a guiding bishop in early Christian communities during the 4th century. Marie-Eugénie de Jésus founded the Religious of the Assumption in the 19th century, emphasizing education and devotion. Pope Simplicius led the Church through tumultuous times in the late 5th century. Sojourner Truth and Harriet Tubman are also commemorated in some Protestant traditions for their faith and social impact. Eastern Orthodox congregations observe related liturgics and prayers on this date.

Saint Attala of Bobbio is commemorated on March 10 in Christian liturgical calendars. A disciple of Saint Columbanus, Attala led the Bobbio Abbey community in northern Italy during the early 7th century. He succeeded Columbanus as abbot and was praised for his strict monastic discipline and spiritual guidance. Attala’s leadership strengthened the monastic tradition and expanded educational efforts. His feast day is observed with special readings, prayers, and reflections on monastic virtues. Both Western and Eastern Christian traditions honor his contributions to early Church life.

Harriet Tubman is honored on March 10 in some Lutheran calendars for her unwavering faith and humanitarian work. Born into slavery, she risked her life repeatedly to lead others to freedom via the Underground Railroad. During the Civil War, Tubman served as a nurse, cook, scout, and spy for the Union Army, guided by her strong Christian beliefs. After the war, she became an advocate for women’s suffrage and civil rights, grounded in her spiritual convictions. Lutheran congregations observe this feast with special prayers, Bible readings, and discussions on faith in action. Her legacy serves as a powerful example of courage, compassion, and moral leadership.

Saint John Ogilvie was born in 1579 and joined the Society of Jesus to minister in Protestant Scotland. Operating in secret, he provided sacraments and spiritual support to persecuted Catholics. Arrested for celebrating Mass, he endured torture and steadfastly refused to renounce his faith. Executed on March 10, 1615, he became Scotland’s first and only post-Reformation canonized saint. His canonization by Pope Paul VI in 1976 recognizes his courage and commitment. His feast day inspires reflection on religious freedom and personal conviction.

Saint Macarius served as Bishop of Jerusalem from around 312 to 334, guiding the early Church through times of theological debate. He attended the First Council of Nicaea in 325, contributing to the affirmation of the Nicene Creed. Revered for his pastoral care and efforts to unify Christian communities, he oversaw the veneration of holy sites in the Holy Land. Tradition credits him with miracles and visions that strengthened the faith of believers. His legacy endures in liturgies and hymns that celebrate his devotion. The March 10 commemoration calls the faithful to remember his leadership and spiritual heritage.

Born Anne-Eugénie Milleret de Brou in 1817, Marie-Eugénie de Jésus devoted her life to the education of young women. In 1839, she founded the Religious of the Assumption congregation, emphasizing contemplative prayer alongside active service. Her visionary approach led to the establishment of schools and community works across Europe and the Americas. Known for her deep spirituality and commitment to social renewal, she guided her sisters through times of political turmoil. Beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1975, she is honored for her inspirational leadership. The March 10 feast celebrates her enduring legacy of faith, education, and social justice.

Pope Simplicius served as Bishop of Rome from 468 to 483 during a period of political instability and barbarian incursions. He defended papal authority, maintained doctrinal unity, and corresponded with Eastern bishops to address heretical challenges. Despite the fall of the Western Roman Empire, he provided pastoral care and administrative leadership to the Christian community in Rome. Tradition highlights his charitable works and his efforts to strengthen the Church’s institutions. His resilience and faith under pressure are commemorated centuries later. The March 10 observance honors his commitment to the Church’s mission in difficult times.

Born Isabella Baumfree in 1797, Sojourner Truth escaped slavery to become a powerful preacher and activist. Her unwavering faith informed her tireless work for abolition and women’s rights across the United States. Renowned for her “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech, she challenged social norms and inspired future generations. The Lutheran Church commemorates her life to highlight the role of faith in social justice and human dignity. Her example of courage and compassion continues to resonate in discussions on equality and church outreach. Celebrated on March 10, her legacy calls believers to live out their convictions boldly.

On March 10, the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar honors a range of saints, martyrs, and holy men and women. Services include readings from the Lives of the Saints, special hymns, and prayers that recall their sacrifices and teachings. The faithful participate in liturgies and, in some traditions, processions or charitable acts. This collective remembrance connects believers with centuries of Orthodox heritage and spiritual guidance. From early church fathers to local ascetics, each commemorated figure offers a model of devotion and perseverance. The day fosters deep spiritual reflection and communal celebration within Orthodox communities.