February 10

On February 10th, the Christian liturgical calendar honors the feast day of Saint Austrebertha, a 7th-century abbess known for her humility and charity. Saint Charalambos, a 2nd-century bishop and martyr, is celebrated for his steadfast faith in the face of persecution. The day also commemorates Saint José Sánchez del Río, a young Mexican martyr who died for his faith in 1928 and was canonized in 2016. Saint Scholastica, twin sister of Saint Benedict, is remembered for founding female monasticism and her devotion to spiritual life. Observed in both Eastern Orthodox and Catholic communities, the feast day involves liturgies, prayers, and reflections on the virtues of these saints.

According to tradition, the apostle Paul was shipwrecked on Malta in 60 AD while en route to Rome to stand trial. The event is credited with introducing Christianity to the Maltese archipelago. Each year on February 10th, Maltese islands observe a public holiday featuring religious processions, masses, and cultural festivals. Valletta and nearby towns hold elaborate celebrations with statues of St. Paul carried through the streets. Local communities also prepare traditional foods and fireworks displays. The feast underscores Malta's deep Christian heritage and its enduring reverence for the patron saint whose legacy shaped the nation's religious identity.

Fenkil Day honors the victory of Eritrean liberation fighters over Ethiopian forces at the port city of Massawa in 1970. The battle was a turning point in the Eritrean War of Independence, boosting the morale of freedom fighters. Observed annually on February 10th, the day features national ceremonies, military parades, and cultural performances. Citizens pay tribute to fallen heroes and veterans who played a pivotal role in the struggle for Eritrean sovereignty. Monuments and memorials in Massawa and the capital Asmara serve as focal points for wreath-laying ceremonies. Fenkil Day reinforces national unity and remembrance of sacrifices made for Eritrea's independence.

Established to support and promote Kurdish writers, the Kurdish Authors Union Day is observed on February 10th in Iraqi Kurdistan. The day features book launches, poetry readings, and discussions highlighting Kurdish literature's richness. Authors and intellectuals gather to share their works and champion freedom of expression. Libraries and cultural centers host workshops and exhibitions showcasing the region's literary heritage. This observance fosters community engagement and encourages emerging writers to contribute to Kurdish language and culture. Kurdish Authors Union Day underscores the importance of literature in preserving identity and promoting cultural dialogue.

Established in 2004, Italy's National Memorial Day of the Exiles and Foibe remembers the ethnic Italians and other victims who suffered violence and displacement at the end of World War II. The term 'Foibe' refers to deep natural sinkholes in the Karst region where mass killings took place. Each year on February 10th, ceremonies are held at memorial sites and cemeteries across Italy. The observance includes speeches by political leaders, cultural events, and educational programs in schools. It aims to promote awareness of this tragic chapter in history and to foster reconciliation. The day encourages reflection on the consequences of war and the value of human rights and peaceful coexistence.

Arabian Leopard Day spotlights efforts to protect one of the world's rarest big cats in its native habitats across the Arabian Peninsula. Conservation organizations and wildlife authorities collaborate to monitor populations and implement anti-poaching measures. Educational campaigns engage local communities in supporting habitat restoration and reducing human-wildlife conflict. Events include lectures, film screenings, and field excursions to promote understanding of the species' ecological importance. Social media initiatives encourage global support and fundraising for conservation projects. Arabian Leopard Day emphasizes the urgent need to preserve biodiversity and safeguard this iconic predator from extinction.

Saint Austrebertha was a Benedictine nun and abbess in 7th-century France, celebrated for her devotion to prayer and care for the poor. According to tradition, she founded the Monastery of Pavilly and led a life of humility and service. Her feast day on February 10th honors her legacy of compassion and monastic leadership. Local churches commemorate her with liturgies and readings of hagiographic accounts. Saint Austrebertha's life continues to inspire believers with themes of perseverance and faith. The observance reflects the enduring impact of early medieval female monastic figures on Christian spirituality.

Saint Charalambos served as bishop of Magnesia in Asia Minor and suffered persecution for protecting Christians under Roman rule. He is remembered for his miracles and steadfast faith, even as an elderly man facing torture. His relics are venerated, and believers invoke his intercession for healing and protection. The feast of Saint Charalambos on February 10th includes special liturgies, processions, and readings of his martyrdom. Icons of the saint are displayed, and faithful gather to pray for deliverance from disease. The observance highlights themes of courage and divine mercy in Christian history.

At just 14 years old, José Sánchez del Río joined the Cristero resistance in Mexico and was captured and executed for refusing to renounce his Catholic faith. His courage and youthful devotion inspired many during the religious conflict of the 1920s. Beatified in 2005 and canonized by Pope Francis in 2016, he is one of the youngest saints in modern Church history. The feast on February 10th features Masses, processions, and educational events celebrating his life. Devotees pray for his intercession, particularly for youth and those facing persecution. Saint José Sánchez del Río symbolizes hope, sacrifice, and steadfast belief.

Saint Scholastica was a 6th-century nun recognized for her devotion to prayer and spiritual counsel. As the twin sister of Saint Benedict, she established one of the first female monastic communities in Italy. According to legend, she once prayed so fervently that a storm prevented Benedict from leaving, allowing them to converse all night. Her feast on February 10th celebrates her contributions to monastic life and theological reflection. Monastic communities hold vigils, prayers, and readings of her life story. Saint Scholastica's legacy endures as a model of contemplative life and sisterhood in the Christian tradition.

In the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar, February 10 is dedicated to the commemoration of various saints and martyrs. Orthodox Christians mark the day with special church services featuring hymns, prayers, and readings honoring these holy figures. Feasts on this date can include venerations of early martyrs, ascetics, and revered bishops, varying by regional traditions. Believers attend the Divine Liturgy and often venerate icons associated with the saints of the day. Fasting, almsgiving, and personal prayer are encouraged to deepen spiritual reflection. Through these observances, the faithful draw inspiration from the saints' examples of courage, faith, and piety. Local Orthodox jurisdictions may observe additional commemorations unique to their communities. This annual observance strengthens connections to the Church's rich historical and spiritual heritage.