August 12

Observed on August 12 in the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar, this feast day honors saints and martyrs such as Euplius, Eusebius of Milan, Herculanus of Brescia, and Jane Frances de Chantal. The day commemorates their lives of faith, sacrifice, and service to the Church. Worship services include special prayers, hymnody, and readings that reflect on the examples set by these holy figures. Church communities often hold liturgical processions and veneration rituals for icons or relics associated with these saints. It is an opportunity for the faithful to remember the enduring legacy of these saints and seek inspiration from their commitment to Christian virtues.

Dating back to 1873, the Glorious Twelfth heralds the opening of grouse shooting season on moorlands throughout the UK. The date was fixed by the British government to regulate hunting and preserve game populations. Each year, sporting estates host shooting parties and events, blending rural tradition with conservation efforts. Photographers and nature enthusiasts also flock to the heather-covered hills to witness the vibrant upland landscapes. While controversial among animal welfare advocates, the day remains an enduring symbol of British sporting heritage.

Every year on August 12, Thailand honors the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, who has long been revered for her charitable work and dedication to the Thai people. The day is declared a national holiday and serves as Mother's Day, celebrating mothers and maternal figures nationwide. Ceremonies at the Grand Palace include floral tributes to the Queen Mother's portrait and offerings at shrines across the country. Families pay respect to their own mothers with gifts of jasmine blossoms and expressions of gratitude. Special television broadcasts and community events highlight the values of motherhood and the Queen Mother's legacy of compassion.

Established by the United Nations in 1999, International Youth Day is marked on August 12 every year to draw attention to critical challenges and opportunities for young people around the world. Each edition focuses on a theme—ranging from mental health to sustainable development—to guide global action. Youth-led events, conferences, and social media campaigns engage communities in dialogue and advocacy. Governments, civil society, and organizations collaborate to promote education, employment, and participation among young people. The day underscores the importance of empowering youth as agents of change for a better future.

Russian Air Force Day, celebrated annually on August 12, marks the founding of the air service and recognizes the bravery and professionalism of its aviators and support crews. Ceremonies are held at military bases and aviation regiments, featuring aerial displays, parades, and medal presentations. Historical retrospectives highlight landmark missions—from early Soviet-era flights to modern operations. Families of service members join public events, and exhibitions showcase aircraft technology advancements. The day strengthens public appreciation for the Air Force’s role in national defense and aerospace research.

Observed on August 12, Russian Railway Troops Day celebrates the specialized military units responsible for railroad construction, repair, and security in support of defense operations. Established in 1851, these troops have played key roles in wartime mobilization and peacetime infrastructure projects across Russia’s vast territory. Events include ceremonies at military schools, recognition of veteran engineers, and exhibitions of historic railway equipment. Demonstrations showcase modern techniques for rapid track laying and bridge construction. The day highlights the strategic importance of rail transport in national security and economic development.

Sea Org Day, observed on August 12, celebrates the establishment of the Sea Organization (Sea Org) in 1967 by L. Ron Hubbard. Members of the Sea Org commit to service and administration in the Church of Scientology, often living on church vessels or dedicated facilities. Annual events include gatherings, commemorative services, and receptions that honor contributions to the growth and spiritual goals of Scientology. Special publications and historical retrospectives recount the development of key Sea Org projects. The day reinforces the community and commitment ideals central to the Sea Organization.

Introduced in 2012, World Elephant Day is celebrated every August 12 to raise awareness about the threats facing wild and captive elephants, including poaching and habitat loss. Non-profit organizations, zoos, and wildlife reserves host educational events, fundraising campaigns, and photo exhibitions to support elephant protection efforts. Conservationists use the day to advocate for stronger legal measures and habitat restoration projects. Social media challenges and viral campaigns encourage global participation in sharing information and donations. The day underscores the critical need for collective action to ensure a future for these iconic animals.

Saint Euplius is remembered for his unwavering faith and martyrdom in the early centuries of Christianity. According to tradition, he suffered persecution for refusing to renounce his beliefs and was honored by early Christian communities for his courage. His feast day on August 12 is observed in the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic traditions with liturgical services and prayers. Icons depict him holding a book or martyr’s palm, symbolizing his teaching and sacrifice. The celebration invites the faithful to reflect on the cost of discipleship and the enduring impact of martyrdom in Church history.

Saint Eusebius served as the bishop of Milan in the early 400s and was renowned for his steadfast opposition to Arianism and heretical teachings. His leadership guided the Church through theological conflicts, and he is celebrated for promoting unity and doctrinal clarity. The feast day on August 12 commemorates his contributions to Church theology, marked by liturgical services, readings of his letters, and veneration of his relics. Local Christian communities hold processions and special prayers in his honor. Eusebius’s legacy continues to inspire discussions on ecclesiastical authority and the development of early Christian doctrine.

Saint Herculanus of Brescia was a prominent 6th-century bishop who led the Christian community in northern Italy. He is revered for his pastoral dedication and resilience amid turmoil. According to tradition, he defended his flock during times of invasion and strife. Pilgrims have venerated his relics in Brescia for centuries. His feast day on August 12 invites reflection on steadfast faith and spiritual leadership.

Born Benedetto Odescalchi in 1611, he became Pope Innocent XI in 1676 and guided the Church through reform and challenges. He prioritized moral integrity, combating nepotism and promoting clerical discipline. Innocent XI supported the Holy League against Ottoman expansion, shaping European politics. Beatified in 1956 by Pope Pius XII, he is remembered for his piety, charity, and governance. His feast day on August 12 celebrates his enduring legacy in church history.