May 28

May 28 brings a Christian feast day that honors a distinguished group of saints recognized in different traditions. Bernard of Menthon is celebrated as the patron of mountaineers and founder of hospices in the Alps. Saint Germain of Paris is remembered for his pastoral care and peacemaking in 6th century France. John Calvin’s commemoration in the Episcopal Church reflects his profound influence on Protestant theology. Lanfranc of Canterbury, Margaret Pole, and William of Gellone are venerated for their service and faith across Europe. Eastern Orthodox liturgics observes several other saints on this date, enriching the day's spiritual tapestry. Church services, prayers, and vespers mark the feast, inviting the faithful to reflect on the saints’ enduring legacies.

Saint Bernard of Menthon was a medieval monk who founded hospices to aid travelers crossing the Alps. Celebrated on May 28 in the Catholic Church, his feast day honors his compassion and service to pilgrims. He is revered as the patron saint of mountaineers, skiers, and alpine guides. Communities near mountain regions hold special Masses, processions, and blessings for those venturing into high altitudes. The Saint Bernard dog breed is often associated with his hospices and rescue missions in alpine terrain. Devotees pray for protection and guidance in challenging journeys, drawing inspiration from Bernard’s legacy. His feast invites reflection on hospitality, charity, and the human spirit’s endurance in nature’s heights.

Saint Germain of Paris served as bishop in the early medieval period and is celebrated on May 28. He became known for his dedication to the poor, social justice, and reconciliation among feuding factions. Under his guidance, the Church of Saint Vincent (later Saint-Germain-des-Prés) became a center of spiritual life in Paris. Pilgrims and parishioners attend special liturgies, prayers, and charitable activities in his honor. Stories of his miracles and interventions for the disenfranchised are recounted in sermons and devotional texts. His leadership during times of political unrest has made him a symbol of peace and pastoral care. The feast day encourages acts of charity and solidarity within communities, reflecting Germain’s enduring influence.

John Calvin was a French theologian and pastor who played a central role in the development of Reformed theology. Born in 1509, he authored the influential Institutes of the Christian Religion and helped shape church governance. The Episcopal Church observes his feast on May 28 as a Lesser Feast. Worship services often include readings from his writings and hymns reflecting his teachings. This day invites reflection on scripture, faith, and community life in light of Calvin’s legacy.

Lanfranc was an 11th-century Benedictine monk who became Archbishop of Canterbury under William the Conqueror. Renowned for his legal acumen and scholarly works, he reformed church administration and strengthened monastic life. He died on May 28, 1089, and is commemorated for his dedication to ecclesiastical order and education. Liturgical observances on this day may include prayers, readings, and hymns highlighting his contributions. His feast encourages reflection on scholarship, governance, and faith.

Margaret Pole was a noblewoman of the Plantagenet line who stood firm in her Catholic faith during the English Reformation. Born in 1473, she was executed in 1541 for refusing to acknowledge the supremacy of King Henry VIII over the Church. Beatified in 1886, she is venerated as a martyr who exemplified courage and conviction. On May 28, her feast day is observed with liturgical readings, prayers, and reflections on steadfast faith. The commemoration highlights themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and spiritual integrity.

William of Gellone, born around 755, was a noble cousin of Charlemagne who became a dedicated monk and abbot after his military career. He founded the abbey of Gellone (now Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert) and led a life devoted to prayer and community service. Canonized in the 12th century, his legacy endures through tales of his humility and charity. Each May 28, the Church remembers his life with prayers, hymns, and readings about monastic discipline. The celebration invites reflection on service, leadership, and faithfulness.

May 28 in the Eastern Orthodox Church is marked by the commemoration of various saints, martyrs, and holy events. The day’s observance includes the Divine Liturgy, specific hymns (troparia and kontakia), and scriptural readings prescribed for these commemorations. Among those honored are early church fathers, ascetics, and martyrs whose lives inspire faith and devotion. Icons of the saints are venerated, and faithful participate in prayers asking for their intercession. This liturgical celebration underscores the continuity of tradition and the communion of saints.