October 05

On October 5, the Roman Catholic Church commemorates saints such as Anna Schäffer, a German mystic known for her deep faith amid suffering, and Faustina Kowalska, the Polish nun who spread the Divine Mercy devotion. Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos is remembered for his ministry to German immigrants in the United States, while Bartolo Longo is honored for his lay evangelism. The Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria venerates martyrs Thraseas, Hor, and Susia for their steadfast witness. Eastern Orthodox liturgics include saints like Placid and Maurus and the martyr Placidus. Celebrations involve special Masses, liturgical readings, and prayers that reflect the lives and virtues of these figures.

Saint Anna Schäffer (1882–1925) was a German Catholic laywoman known for her deep devotion, mystical experiences, and stigmata. Paralyzed by a fall and suffering chronic pain, she bore her sufferings with remarkable faith and compassion. She was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1999 and canonized in 2012. Her writings and letters continue to inspire those facing illness and adversity. Each year on October 5, the faithful honor her memory with prayers, pilgrimages, and the celebration of Mass in her home diocese.

Saint Faustina Kowalska (1905–1938) was a Polish nun and mystic who reported visions of Jesus emphasizing God’s mercy. Her diary, 'Divine Mercy in My Soul,' inspired the Divine Mercy devotion and the Divine Mercy Chaplet. Canonized by Pope John Paul II in 2000, she is venerated as the Apostle of Divine Mercy. Her feast day on October 5 invites the faithful to contemplate God’s infinite mercy and to practice forgiveness and trust. Celebrations include prayers, veneration of the Divine Mercy image, and communal Chaplet recitations.

Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos (1819–1867) was a German-born Redemptorist priest known for his missionary work in the United States, especially in New Orleans and Pittsburgh. Celebrated for his compassion, preaching, and miraculous healings, he garnered widespread devotion among the faithful. He was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2000. Each year on October 5, Catholics remember his legacy of service, hospitality to immigrants, and trust in God’s providence through Masses, novenas, and pilgrimages.

Blessed Bartolo Longo (1841–1926) was an Italian lawyer and former skeptic who converted to Catholicism, became a Dominican tertiary, and promoted the devotion to Our Lady of the Rosary. He founded the Shrine of the Virgin of the Rosary of Pompei and authored spiritual works that revitalized the Rosary among the faithful. Beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1980, he is celebrated for his repentance and evangelization. On October 5, his feast day is marked by Rosary processions, novenas, and community prayers focused on reconciliation and Marian devotion.

Saint Thraseas was a 2nd-century bishop of Eumenia and Smyrna, known for his steadfast faith and martyrdom under Roman persecution. Mentioned by early Church historians for his stand against heresy and his pastoral care, he is venerated among the Holy Martyrs of the East. His life exemplifies courageous leadership and unwavering commitment to the Gospel. On October 5, the Church commemorates his witness through liturgical prayers, readings, and reflections on sacrificial faith.

Saints Hor and Susia were Egyptian martyrs commemorated by the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria. According to tradition, they endured torture and death under Roman persecution for refusing to renounce their Christian faith. Their steadfast witness and ultimate sacrifice are honored annually on October 5. The Coptic faithful remember them through liturgical services, hymns, and readings that celebrate their courage and devotion to Christ.

Saints Placid and Maurus were early followers of Saint Benedict of Nursia in the 6th century. Maurus was sent by Benedict to rescue Placid, who nearly drowned while gathering water; this miracle illustrates Benedictine obedience and brotherly love. Their joint commemoration highlights monastic virtues and the spread of the Benedictine tradition. On October 5, monastic communities and the faithful honor their legacy with prayers focused on obedience, humility, and service.

Saint Placidus is commemorated as an early Christian martyr who suffered persecution under Roman authorities. Though details of his life and martyrdom vary among traditions, he is honored for his unwavering dedication to Christ, even unto death. His story has inspired generations of believers to remain faithful in adversity. Each year on October 5, communities remember his sacrifice through liturgies and reflections on the cost of discipleship.

On October 5, the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar commemorates a variety of saints, martyrs, and ecclesial events across different traditions. Among these are the Holy Martyr Charitina, Saints Xanthippa and Polyxena, and other local holy figures. The day’s services include readings, hymns, and the Divine Liturgy, reflecting on the enduring faith of those who have gone before. Orthodox communities worldwide celebrate through Vespers, Matins, and communal prayers, linking believers with the rich heritage of the Church.