March 29

Observed on March 29 in the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar, this feast day commemorates the lives and spiritual contributions of Saints Armogastes, Berthold of Calabria, Gwynllyw, Jonas and Barachisius. The faithful attend liturgical services featuring special hymns and prayers that reflect on each saint's example of faith, sacrifice or missionary dedication. Armogastes and the Persian martyrs Jonas and Barachisius are remembered for their courage under persecution, while Berthold of Calabria and Gwynllyw are celebrated for their monastic devotion and pastoral care. The observance deepens communal worship and connects believers with the historical traditions of the early Church. Through reflection on their virtues, adherents are inspired to strengthen their own spiritual journey and commitment to Christian teachings.

Saint Armogastes is remembered as an early Christian figure who remained steadfast in his faith amid persecution. Though historical details about his life are limited, he is venerated for his example of spiritual courage and devotion. Eastern Orthodox communities observe his feast with special liturgical services, including prayers and hymns that reflect on his sacrifice. The day provides believers with an opportunity to meditate on the virtues of perseverance and faithfulness. Saint Armogastes's legacy continues to inspire those facing challenges in their own spiritual journeys.

Saint Berthold of Calabria was a nobleman who abandoned wealth to lead an ascetic life as a hermit. He founded religious communities in southern Italy and became known for his deep devotion and simple lifestyle. On March 29, the Orthodox Church honors his memory through liturgical services featuring readings on monastic discipline and prayer. Worshippers reflect on his dedication to humility, charity and contemplative practice. Berthold's example offers an invitation to embrace spiritual simplicity and seek closeness to God. His enduring influence can be seen in monastic traditions inspired by his life.

Saint Gwynllyw, also known as Woolos the Warrior, was a 5th-century Welsh king who embraced the monastic life later in his reign. He made a pilgrimage to Rome and established religious communities upon his return to Wales. Commemorated on March 29, his feast day involves special church services that celebrate his transformation from warrior to pastor and hermit. Faithful reflect on themes of repentance, service and spiritual growth. Churches dedicated to his memory host cultural events and community gatherings in his honor. His life story exemplifies the power of faith to inspire profound change and leadership.

Saints Jonas and Barachisius were Persian Christians who suffered martyrdom under Sassanid persecution. Their unwavering commitment to their faith, despite facing torture, has made them enduring symbols of courage in the Eastern Orthodox Church. On March 29, liturgical traditions honor their memory with hymns and readings that recount their trial and sacrifice. The faithful gather in services to draw inspiration from their story of devotion and resilience. Their feast day invites reflection on the costs of discipleship and the enduring power of conviction. Through remembrance, believers reaffirm their own commitments to faith in the face of adversity.

On March 29 according to the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar, the Church commemorates the memory of saints and martyrs who lived between the 4th and 8th centuries. Services feature special hymns (troparia and kontakia), scriptural readings, and prayers honoring their lives and witness. Notable figures include Venerable John Climacus of Mount Sinai, renowned author of The Ladder of Divine Ascent. Observances vary by region—Greece, Russia, Serbia, and beyond—with parishes often sharing a festal meal after Divine Liturgy. This liturgical observance underscores the rich hagiographical tradition of Eastern Orthodoxy and its emphasis on the communion of saints. Through communal worship and reflection, the faithful renew their spiritual journey by emulating the virtues of those commemorated.