April 25

Anzac Day marks the anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli in 1915 and has evolved into a national day of remembrance across Australia, New Zealand, and Tonga. Dawn services, parades, and memorial ceremonies are held to pay tribute to those who served and sacrificed their lives in war. People wear sprigs of rosemary, lay wreaths at war memorials, and observe a moment of silence. The day fosters reflection on the nature of war and the value of peace. Community events and educational programs help new generations understand the significance of Anzac tradition.

On April 25, Western and Eastern Christian churches commemorate Giovanni Battista Piamarta, Mark the Evangelist, Maughold of the Isle of Man, Peter of Saint Joseph de Betancur, Philo and Agathopodes, and Anianus of Alexandria. In Western Christianity, Major Rogation is held to seek divine blessing on the land and crops, involving processions and litanies. The Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar includes special readings and hymns honoring these saints. Communities gather for prayer services reflecting on their virtues and contributions to the faith. This day illustrates the diversity of Christian liturgical traditions and the enduring legacy of saintly figures.

Observed annually on April 25, Freedom Day celebrates the success of the Carnation Revolution when military and civilian protesters overthrew the Estado Novo regime without bloodshed. Named after the carnations placed in soldiers’ rifle barrels, the day symbolizes hope, democracy, and civil liberties. Festivities include parades, concerts, and public debates on freedom and human rights. Memorials honor those who fought for democratic change. Educational programs encourage reflection on the value of liberty and the dangers of authoritarianism. Freedom Day remains a cornerstone of Portuguese national identity and democratic tradition.

Liberation Day, known as Festa della Liberazione, celebrates the victory of the Italian Resistance and Allied forces over Axis powers. Citizens commemorate the end of World War II oppression with ceremonies, public readings, and reenactments. Towns across Italy hold local events, laying wreaths at monuments and hosting cultural exhibitions. The day honors partisans and civilians who sacrificed for freedom and democracy. It serves as a reminder of the value of unity and resistance against tyranny. Liberation Day is also a time for contemporary reflection on civil rights and social justice.

Observed on April 25, this national holiday honors the establishment of the anti-Japanese guerrilla army led by Kim Il Sung in 1932, regarded as the precursor to the modern Korean People’s Army. Celebrations include military parades, mass performances, and speeches praising the country’s armed forces. Schools and workplaces hold patriotic events to instill loyalty and emphasize national defense. State media broadcasts historical documentaries and tributes to military leaders. The day reinforces the central role of the military in North Korean society and ideology. It remains one of the most important holidays on the official calendar, reflecting the state’s emphasis on military strength.

Established by the World Health Organization in 2007, World Malaria Day on April 25 highlights progress in research, prevention, and treatment of malaria. Global health communities organize conferences, public campaigns, and fundraising events to support initiatives like bed net distribution and antimalarial drug development. The day emphasizes the importance of international cooperation, innovation, and community engagement in reducing malaria morbidity and mortality. Case studies from affected regions showcase successful intervention strategies. World Malaria Day also calls for sustained political commitment and equitable access to healthcare. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against one of the world’s deadliest diseases.

Saint Giovanni Battista Piamarta (1841–1913) founded the Congregation of the Holy Family of Nazareth to support disadvantaged young people through education and vocational training. His feast on April 25 celebrates his dedication to empowering youth and promoting social justice. Special masses and community gatherings are held in Verona, Italy, and in congregations worldwide. Devotees reflect on his teachings about compassion, hard work, and faith-driven service. The day inspires charitable activities and vocational programs in his spirit. Schools named after Piamarta often host exhibitions on his life and impact.

Traditionally held on April 25, Major Rogation days are part of a liturgical tradition of litanies and processions invoking God’s mercy. Clergy and congregants walk around parish boundaries, singing litanies, blessing crops, and praying for good weather and a bountiful harvest. The practice dates back to the 5th century and reflects the agricultural roots of Christian communities. In many regions, the Rogation Procession includes decorated banners and the carrying of crosses. The observance emphasizes themes of stewardship, thanksgiving, and reliance on divine providence. Although less common today, some parishes and rural communities still maintain the tradition.

Celebrated on April 25 in the Western Christian calendar, Saint Mark the Evangelist is honored for his role in documenting the life of Jesus Christ. Liturgical services include readings from his Gospel, hymns, and prayers praising his evangelistic mission. Venice, which claims Mark’s relics, holds major festivities including boat processions and a grand celebration at St. Mark’s Basilica. The day highlights the importance of the written Gospel in spreading Christian teachings. Churches around the world display the lion symbol associated with Mark. Educational sessions often explore his contributions to early Christianity.

Saint Maughold, a 5th-century hermit and missionary, is commemorated on April 25 for his evangelical work and pious life on the Isle of Man. According to tradition, Maughold was a reformed pirate who became a devoted servant of Christ. Pilgrims visit his hermitage and the ruins of his chapel in Maughold village. Special prayers and services are held in Manx churches to honor his legacy of conversion and penance. The day includes community gatherings and cultural events celebrating Manx heritage. Saint Maughold’s story exemplifies themes of redemption and faith-driven transformation.

Saint Peter of Saint Joseph de Betancur (1626-1667), also known as Pedro de San José de Bethencourt, was a Spanish-born Franciscan tertiary who devoted his life to serving the poor in Guatemala City. He founded the Order of Our Lady of Bethlehem and established hospitals, schools, and shelters for the homeless. He personally cared for the sick and destitute, demonstrating humility and compassion in every act. His dedication earned him the moniker 'Tata Güízar' among indigenous people. He was beatified by Pope Pius IX in 1852 and canonized by Pope John Paul II in 2002. His feast day on April 25 celebrates his enduring legacy of charity and faith in action.

Saints Philo and Agathopodes are revered in the Eastern Orthodox Church as steadfast Christians who bore witness to their faith despite persecution in antiquity. While historical details are sparse, tradition venerates them for their unwavering devotion and ultimate sacrifice in the name of Christ. They are jointly celebrated on April 25, when congregations remember their example through hymns, prayers, and scriptural readings. Their shared feast underscores the communal nature of sanctity and encourages believers to remain firm in spiritual solidarity and courage. Their witness continues to inspire generations of Orthodox Christians worldwide.