April 28

Christian feast days on April 28 include the martyrdom of Aphrodisius and companions, commemorated for their unwavering faith in the early Church. Gianna Beretta Molla, a 20th-century Italian pediatrician, is remembered for her selfless sacrifice to save her unborn child. Kirill of Turov, an Orthodox bishop added to the Roman Martyrology in 1969, is honored for his theological writings. The day also honors Louis de Montfort, Pamphilus of Sulmona, Peter Chanel, and Vitalis and Valeria of Milan, each celebrated for their devotion and legacy in Christian history.

Saint Aphrodisius and companions are honored on April 28 for their martyrdom in the early centuries of Christianity. According to tradition, Aphrodisius led a group of converts who faced persecution for their faith in Roman Gaul. Their steadfast witness and willingness to suffer inspired early Christian communities. Churches, especially in southern France, commemorate their sacrifice with special liturgies and prayers. This feast highlights the courage of those who upheld their beliefs against oppression in the formative years of the Church.

Gianna Beretta Molla (1922–1962) was an Italian pediatrician and mother who chose to continue her pregnancy despite serious health risks. She opted against treatments that endangered her unborn child and died shortly after giving birth. Beatified in 1994 and canonized in 2004 by Pope John Paul II, she is revered for her courage and commitment to life. Her life and writings inspire people to value human dignity and maternal love. On April 28, Catholic communities around the world celebrate her legacy with Masses and devotionals.

Kirill of Turov (1130–1182) was a prominent Eastern Orthodox bishop known for his theological writings and sermons. Celebrated on April 28, he was added to the Roman Martyrology in 1969, recognizing his spiritual influence beyond the Orthodox tradition. His homilies on liturgy, repentance, and the life of Christ remain important to Slavic Christian heritage. In Orthodox churches, his memory is honored with liturgical services and readings of his works. The feast encourages reflection on the role of theology and pastoral care in Christian life.

Saint Louis de Montfort (1673–1716) was a French Catholic priest and missionary celebrated for his deep devotion to the Virgin Mary. He authored 'True Devotion to Mary,' influencing Marian spirituality worldwide. Founder of the Company of Mary and the Daughters of Wisdom, he dedicated his life to evangelization among the poor. Canonized in 1947, his spirituality emphasizes total consecration to Christ through Mary. On April 28, Masses and rosary prayers honor his legacy and encourage the faithful to embrace his teachings on love and humility.

Pamphilus of Sulmona is celebrated for his role as a bishop in the early medieval Church. He is revered by the faithful in Sulmona, Italy, for his pastoral care and commitment to Christian teachings. Although details of his life are scarce, tradition credits him with acts of charity and spiritual leadership. His feast day on April 28 offers devotees an opportunity to reflect on his legacy of humility and service. Churches in the Diocese of Sulmona-Ovidio hold special liturgies in his honor.

Saint Peter Chanel was a 19th-century Catholic missionary who became the first martyr of Oceania. Appointed as a Marist priest, he traveled to the Pacific islands to evangelize and served the people of Futuna with compassion. On April 28, 1841, he was killed following tensions with local authorities but inspired future missionary work. His unwavering faith and sacrifice earned him sainthood in 1954. Each year, communities in the Pacific islands and around the world commemorate his dedication and legacy.

Saints Vitalis and Valeria of Milan are early Christian martyrs honored together on April 28. According to tradition, the married couple endured persecution for their faith under Roman rule. They are remembered for their steadfastness in the face of adversity and their mutual support in marriage and ministry. Relics attributed to them have been venerated in Milan since ancient times. Their joint feast day celebrates their commitment to each other and to Christ.

April 28 in the Eastern Orthodox Church is marked by the commemoration of various saints and sacred events. The liturgical calendar assigns this date to honor holy martyrs, bishops, and monastic figures whose lives exemplified Christian virtue. Services on this day include the chanting of hymns, reading of Scripture passages, and special prayers. Orthodox faithful around the world observe this date in accordance with the Julian or Revised Julian calendar. Parish communities may hold processions or icon veneration to celebrate the spiritual heritage of the Orthodox tradition.