October 14

Every October 14, Christian communities celebrate a cluster of feast days honoring saints such as Angadrisma, Fortunatus of Todi, Joseph Schereschewsky, and Pope Callixtus I. Angadrisma is remembered for her pious life and miraculous healings as a 7th-century nun. Fortunatus of Todi, a 6th-century bishop and Latin poet, is honored for his contributions to monastic life. Joseph Schereschewsky, a missionary bishop in China, receives recognition for translating the Bible into Chinese. Pope Callixtus I, one of the early leaders of the Roman Church, is commemorated for his martyrdom. The Eastern Orthodox Church also observes the Intercession of the Theotokos on this date, celebrating the Virgin Mary's protective intercession.

The Day of the Cathedral of the Living Pillar is observed on October 14 by the Georgian Orthodox Church. It honors the historical Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, known as the Living Pillar for its legendary connection to Christ's robe. According to tradition, a pillar of the cathedral is believed to be imbued with divine presence. Pilgrims visit the cathedral to venerate its sacred relics and pray for blessings. The feast celebrates the cathedral's role as a spiritual center and a symbol of Georgian Christian heritage. The event brings together clergy and faithful in liturgical services and communal gatherings.

Saint Angadrisma was a noblewoman turned nun who became the abbess of the Monastery of Saint Magnence in France during the 7th century. Her life was marked by reported miracles of healing and her role in defending the monastic community. Pilgrims visited her tomb seeking cures for illnesses. Angadrisma's story reflects the spiritual fervor of early medieval religious life. Her feast day on October 14 celebrates her enduring legacy in Christian hagiography.

Saint Fortunatus of Todi was born around 530 AD and served as Bishop of Todi in Umbria, Italy. Known for his Latin poetry and hymns, he contributed significantly to early medieval church literature. He traveled widely, forging alliances and defending orthodox doctrine against Arianism. After a life of scholarly and pastoral work, he was venerated as a saint following his death around 600 AD. His feast day on October 14 honors his literary achievements and spiritual leadership. Churches dedicated to Fortunatus can be found across Italy, reflecting his lasting influence.

Joseph Schereschewsky served as a bishop of the Anglican Episcopal Church in Shanghai, China, during the late 19th century. He is celebrated for translating the Bible into Wenli, classical Chinese, and Mandarin, making scripture accessible to millions. Despite health challenges and political turmoil, he devoted his life to education, founding schools and seminaries. His work bridged cultural and linguistic divides and laid foundations for the church's growth in China. The Episcopal Church in the USA honors his missionary zeal and scholarship on October 14 each year. His legacy continues to inspire church leaders and linguists worldwide.

Pope Callixtus I served as the Bishop of Rome from around 217 to 222 AD and is remembered for his pastoral care and church organization. Born into slavery in Rome circa 175 AD, he rose through the ranks of the Church, eventually establishing the titulus callisti—later Santa Maria in Trastevere. He is credited with granting absolution for sins traditionally considered grave and reinforcing the authority of the papacy. Under Emperor Alexander Severus, Callixtus faced opposition and legend holds that he was martyred and buried along the Via Appia. His feast on October 14 celebrates his legacy of forgiveness, compassion, and the early growth of the Roman Church. Devotees honor him through Masses, prayers, and reflections on reconciliation and mercy.

On October 14, the Eastern Orthodox Church observes a series of fixed feasts and saintly commemorations that unite faithful across traditions. Services typically include Vespers, Matins, and the Divine Liturgy, featuring special hymns and scripture readings. The day’s observances recall a diverse array of martyrs, ascetics, and holy figures whose lives inspired the Christian community. Icons of the commemorated saints are venerated, and congregations reflect on their virtues and trials. This liturgical rhythm fosters a living connection to the Church’s history and spiritual heritage. Depending on the jurisdiction, calendars may follow the Julian or Revised Julian system, resulting in celebrations on different civil dates. Through prayerful remembrance, believers draw inspiration for personal devotion and communal worship.

The Intercession of the Theotokos, also known as the Feast of the Protection, is one of the Great Feasts of the Orthodox Church. According to tradition, in the 10th century, the Virgin Mary appeared at the Blachernae Church in Constantinople to intercede for the city during a siege. She was seen spreading her veil (omophorion) over the people as a sign of divine protection and care. This event symbolizes Mary’s ongoing guardianship and her role as an intercessor for humanity. On October 14, Orthodox Christians honor her with prayer services, processions, and special liturgical hymns. The celebrated icon of the Protection depicts Mary sheltering worshippers beneath her veil, inspiring devotion and trust. The feast highlights themes of compassion, faith, and divine aid in times of peril.