March 24

On March 24, Christians around the world commemorate the feast days of several notable saints and religious figures. Saint Catherine of Vadstena, a 14th-century Swedish mystic and abbess, is celebrated for her spiritual writings and leadership of the Bridgettine order. Saint Hildelith of Barking, an Anglo-Saxon abbess, is remembered for her piety and role in the early English church. Saint Mac Cairthinn of Clogher, an early Irish bishop, is venerated for his missionary work in Ulster and contributions to the Church of Ireland. Archbishop Óscar Romero of El Salvador is honored for his advocacy for human rights and martyrdom. Father Paul Couturier is celebrated for his pioneering efforts in the modern ecumenical movement. Mystic Walter Hilton is commemorated in the Church of England for his influential devotional writings. In Eastern Orthodox traditions, this date also features specific liturgical commemorations and readings.

Established by national legislation, this day commemorates the victims of forced disappearances during Argentina's military dictatorship from 1976 to 1983. Each year, citizens participate in marches, public ceremonies, and visits to the National Memorial to the Victims of State Terrorism. Families of the disappeared share stories and continue to demand accountability and answers. Educational programs and cultural events are organized to raise awareness of human rights and democratic values. The day serves as a powerful reminder of the need to preserve collective memory and prevent future abuses. It highlights ongoing efforts to locate missing persons and bring perpetrators to justice.

Established by the UN General Assembly in 2010, this day recognizes the vital role of truth commissions and official inquiries in addressing past human rights abuses. It honors the memory of victims and supports their right to know the circumstances surrounding violations. Around the world, events such as conferences, film screenings, and exhibitions highlight transitional justice processes. The observance underscores the importance of transparency and accountability to prevent future atrocities. Governments and NGOs use the day to launch new investigations and strengthen legal frameworks. It fosters international cooperation in documenting violations and preserving collective memory for reconciliation.

Proclaimed by the Ugandan government, National Tree Planting Day aims to combat deforestation and land degradation across the country. On March 24, communities, schools, businesses, and government agencies coordinate tree-planting activities in urban and rural areas. The National Environment Management Authority provides seedlings, training, and technical support to participants. Public awareness campaigns emphasize the benefits of trees for soil conservation, water retention, and biodiversity. Educational programs engage students in environmental stewardship and the importance of a sustainable future. The day reflects Uganda’s commitment to sustainable development and addressing climate change through collective action.

Observed annually on March 24 to commemorate the discovery of the tuberculosis bacillus by Dr. Robert Koch in 1882, World Tuberculosis Day is led by the World Health Organization. It highlights the impact of TB on global health and the urgent need for improved diagnosis, treatment, and research. Events include seminars, community screenings, and advocacy campaigns in countries heavily affected by the disease. Each year's theme, such as 'Yes! We can end TB!', mobilizes policymakers and stakeholders to accelerate action. Public and private partners use the day to announce funding commitments and policy initiatives. The observance calls for equitable access to care, increased investment in vaccine development, and support for patients and survivors.

Saint Catherine of Vadstena, daughter of Saint Bridget of Sweden, became abbess of Vadstena Abbey and one of the most influential spiritual writers of the Middle Ages. Renowned for her mystical visions and leadership of the Bridgettine order, she advocated for reform within the Church. Her devotional writings inspired religious communities across Europe. Canonized in 1484, she is venerated by the Catholic Church and commemorated in Anglican and Lutheran calendars. Her feast day on March 24 invites reflection on her life of prayer, humility, and service to others.

Saint Hildelith of Barking was a 7th-century abbess who led Barking Abbey, one of the earliest monastic communities for women in Anglo-Saxon England. She succeeded Saint Æthelburh and helped establish the abbey as a center of learning, charity, and religious life. Though few of her own writings survive, she is remembered through accounts by contemporaries who praised her devotion and governance. Under her guidance, the community cared for the poor and sick and fostered intellectual activity in the region. Commemorated on March 24, her feast day sheds light on the role of women in the spread of Christianity during the early medieval period.

Saint Mac Cairthinn of Clogher is traditionally regarded as one of the earliest bishops in Ireland, active during the 5th century. Working alongside Saint Patrick's mission, he established the diocesan seat at Clogher and evangelized communities across modern-day Northern Ireland. He is credited with founding monastic settlements and promoting Christian teachings among Gaelic tribes. Venerated for his pastoral care and dedication to spreading the Gospel, his influence helped lay the foundation for Ireland's ecclesiastical structure. His feast on March 24 celebrates his contributions to the growth of the early Irish Church and its enduring legacy.

Archbishop Óscar Romero of San Salvador became a global symbol of social justice when he denounced violence and human rights abuses during El Salvador's civil conflict. After witnessing the assassination of his friend Father Rutilio Grande, he used his sermons to speak out against oppression and to defend the poor. Romero was assassinated while celebrating Mass on March 24, solidifying his legacy as a martyr for the oppressed. Beatified in 2015 and canonized in 2018, he is honored by the Catholic Church, Anglican Communion, and Lutheran churches. His feast day invites reflection on faith, courage, and the Church's role in advocacy for human rights and peace.

Father Paul Couturier was a Catholic priest known as the 'apostle of Christian unity' for his tireless work promoting ecumenism. He initiated the World Day of Prayer for the Unity of Christians in 1908, encouraging Christians to pray for unity across denominational lines without compromising doctrinal beliefs. His vision laid the groundwork for later dialogues between denominations and inspired generations of church leaders. Recognized by the Catholic Church and the Church of England, his writings and initiatives continue to influence the quest for unity among Christian communities. His feast on March 24 celebrates his legacy of prayer, dialogue, and mutual respect in the pursuit of reconciliation.

Walter Hilton (c.1340–1396) was a Carthusian monk and renowned English mystic whose writings guided medieval devotional life. His most influential work, The Scale of Perfection, explores the soul’s journey toward divine union through prayer and contemplation. The Church of England commemorates him on March 24 each year, celebrating his enduring spiritual legacy. Services and readings from his texts are held in churches to reflect on his teachings. Believers are encouraged to seek inner transformation and deepen their relationship with God as Hilton advocated. The feast day invites Christians to revisit the rich tradition of medieval spirituality and apply its insights to modern devotional practice.

On March 24 in the Eastern Orthodox Church, faithful commemorate a range of saints, martyrs, and venerable figures whose feast days fall on this date. The liturgical services include the Divine Liturgy, hymns, and readings that recount the lives and virtues of the honored saints. Observances vary by jurisdiction but often feature processions, prayer services, and veneration of icons. This day offers Orthodox believers an opportunity to reflect on the exemplary faith and sacrifices of early Christians. Parish communities gather to receive blessings, partake in the Eucharist, and share communal meals. The liturgical texts emphasize themes of perseverance, holiness, and the call to imitation of Christ’s humility and love. Participating in these observances deepens spiritual unity and continuity with centuries of Orthodox tradition.