May 31

On May 31, the Christian Church celebrates several feast days in both Western and Eastern traditions. In Western Christianity, the Visitation of Mary commemorates the Virgin Mary’s visit to her cousin Elizabeth, highlighting themes of joy and service. The Roman Catholic Church also honors saints such as Camilla Battista da Varano, Hermias, and Petronella, remembering their faith and martyrdom. In Eastern Orthodox liturgics, May 31 includes commemorations of early martyrs and bishops whose lives inspired the faithful. Churches worldwide hold special liturgies, prayers, and readings from sacred texts. These observances connect believers to centuries of Christian heritage and encourage reflection on grace, courage, and communal support.

Saint Camilla Battista da Varano (1458–1524) was born into the noble Varano family of Urbino, Italy. She joined the Order of Saint Clare and became known for her mystical visions, ascetic life, and spiritual writings. Her works, including meditations and letters, influenced the development of Baroque spirituality. Beatified in 1765 and canonized by Pope Francis in 2015, her legacy endures in Poor Clare convents worldwide. On May 31, the Church honors her devotion through Mass, prayer services, and readings from her writings. Pilgrims and scholars study her life to gain insight into Renaissance-era mysticism and the role of women in the Church.

Saint Hermias was a Christian martyr, believed to have lived in the 2nd century under Roman persecution. According to tradition, he refused to renounce his faith despite torture and imprisonment. His steadfast witness inspired early Christian communities and contributed to the veneration of martyrs. On May 31, liturgical services recount his martyrdom, and believers offer prayers for perseverance in the face of adversity. While historical records are scarce, Hermias’s story is preserved in hagiographies and iconography. Veneration of Saint Hermias underscores the sacrifices made by early Christians and the enduring call to remain true to one’s convictions.

Saint Petronella is venerated as a virgin martyr of the early Church, often identified as the spiritual daughter of the Apostle Peter. Though details vary, tradition holds that she lived in Rome and suffered martyrdom for her unwavering faith. Early Christian communities honored her with a dedicated tomb near the Vatican, which became a pilgrimage site. On May 31, the Church observes her feast with prayers and reflections on her example of purity and devotion. Artistic depictions portray her with a lamp or cross, symbols of her martyrdom and guiding light for the faithful. Petronella’s story highlights the closeness of the first generation of Christians to the foundations of the Church.

The Feast of the Visitation commemorates Mary’s journey to the hill country of Judea to greet her cousin Elizabeth, as recounted in the Gospel of Luke. During this encounter, Elizabeth’s unborn child leaped in recognition of the Messiah, prompting Mary’s hymn of praise, the Magnificat. In Western Christianity, this feast is celebrated on May 31 with special liturgies, hymns, and prayers reflecting themes of joy and service. Churches are adorned with symbols of spring and new life, and congregations meditate on the virtues of humility and hospitality. The event encourages believers to seek opportunities to support and uplift one another. It also reminds the faithful of Mary’s role in salvation history and the strength found in community.

In the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar, May 31 honors a diverse group of saints, including martyrs, bishops, and ascetics. Orthodox parishes celebrate with the Divine Liturgy, chanting hymns specific to each saint and reading from the Synaxarion. Faithful venerate icons of the commemorated figures and offer prayers seeking their intercession. The day emphasizes the unity of the Church across time and geography, connecting contemporary worshipers with the witness of past generations. Fasting rules and liturgical colors may vary by local tradition, but the spirit of remembrance remains constant. May 31 serves as a reminder of the enduring call to holiness exemplified by those who lived and died for their faith.