April 25

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.

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.

Saint Anianus of Alexandria (d. circa 85 AD) served as the first successor to Saint Mark the Evangelist and became the second Bishop of Alexandria. Originally a shoemaker, he was converted by Saint Mark and appointed to shepherd the growing Christian community in Egypt. Under his guidance, the church in Alexandria flourished through organized catechesis and pastoral care. He defended the fledgling faith against early heresies and nurtured new believers with compassion and wisdom. The Coptic and Eastern Orthodox traditions venerate him as a foundational figure, and his feast on April 25 honors his pivotal role in establishing one of Christianity's most ancient sees.

The Eastern Orthodox liturgical entry for April 25 compiles the feast days of various saints, martyrs, and church events observed across different jurisdictions. Orthodox parishes and monasteries mark this date with the Divine Liturgy and daily offices, featuring hymns and readings that reflect the lives of the commemorated saints. While specific observances can vary by national church, common elements include troparia, kontakia, and selected passages from the Scriptures. The liturgical book provides guidelines on which texts and hymns to use, ensuring a unified celebration of faith and history. April 25 serves as a moment for the faithful to unite in prayer, drawing inspiration from the examples of early Christian witnesses and local holy ones.