February 15

This feast day brings together commemorations for saints such as Blessed Michał Sopoćko, Claude de la Colombière, and early martyrs Faustinus and Jovita. It also honors figures like King Oswiu of Northumbria, Bishop Quinidius of Vaison, and missionary Sigfrid of Sweden. Western churches remember Thomas Bray, founder of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel, and Walfrid of Lindisfarne. The 21 Coptic Martyrs of Libya who died in 2015 are also remembered on this date. Eastern Orthodox liturgics highlight additional saints in their calendar. The date reflects the richness of Christian history and devotion across centuries.

John Frum Day is celebrated annually on February 15 by followers of the John Frum movement on the island of Tanna in Vanuatu. The holiday honors the mysterious figure John Frum, believed to have promised prosperity and deliverance through cargo and American goods. Festivities include traditional dances, drum ceremonies, parades, and the raising of the American flag, reflecting the movement’s unique blend of indigenous beliefs and American influence. Tourists often visit to witness the vibrant celebrations and learn about this living anthropological phenomenon. The day offers insight into the resilience of local traditions and the enduring appeal of hope and cultural identity.

Parinirvana Day, observed mainly by Mahayana Buddhists on February 15, memorializes the death and final nirvana of Gautama Buddha. Followers reflect on the transient nature of life and the importance of striving for enlightenment. Rituals may include reading from the Mahaparinibbana Sutta, meditation sessions, and visits to temples. Many devotees light candles or incense in tribute to the Buddha’s teachings and practice acts of compassion. Schools and sangha communities hold discussions and lectures on the Buddha’s final days and legacy. The day encourages introspection and recommitment to spiritual practice.

Blessed Michał Sopoćko (1888–1975) was a Polish priest and professor of pastoral theology who became the spiritual guide of Saint Faustina Kowalska. He was instrumental in spreading the Divine Mercy message and devotion, authoring numerous works on its theology. Beatified in 2008, Father Sopoćko is honored for his unwavering faith, pastoral care, and dedication to social justice. His feast day on 15 February invites the faithful to reflect on God’s mercy, engage in acts of compassion, and study his writings. Parishes around the world hold special masses, prayers, and talks to celebrate his legacy.

Saint Claude de la Colombière (1641–1682) was a French Jesuit priest admired for his humility, spiritual depth, and devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. As confessor to Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, he played a key role in promoting the Sacred Heart devotion across Europe. After his death, his writings and letters continued to inspire countless Catholics. His feast on 15 February celebrates his pastoral wisdom, missionary zeal, and commitment to prayer. Churches may organize talks, novenas, and Eucharistic adoration to honor his contributions to Catholic spirituality and devotion to the Heart of Christ.

Saints Faustinus and Jovita were brothers and wealthy citizens of Brescia who converted to Christianity and preached the Gospel in the 2nd century. They were arrested and martyred for refusing to renounce their faith during Emperor Hadrian’s reign. Their steadfast witness and sacrifice became emblematic of courage in the early Church. On 15 February, their feast day is observed with Masses, processions, and community gatherings in Brescia and by Catholics worldwide. The day honors their legacy of evangelization, brotherhood, and unwavering fidelity to Christ in the face of persecution.

Saint Quinidius (d. 579) served as bishop of Vaison in Provence and became known for his asceticism, healing miracles, and advocacy for the marginalized. Living a life of prayer and service, he founded monasteries and cared for the sick and imprisoned. His intercession is often sought for health and freedom from affliction. His feast on 15 February is marked by special liturgies, pilgrimages to his shrine in Vaison-la-Romaine, and charitable works inspired by his compassion. The day celebrates his enduring example of pastoral care and Christian charity.

Saint Sigfrid of Sweden (d. 1045) was an Anglo-Saxon missionary bishop who journeyed to Scandinavia and baptized Swedish royalty, including King Olaf. He established churches, ordained local clergy, and aided in translating liturgical texts into Old Norse. His missionary zeal earned him the title ‘Apostle of Sweden.’ On 15 February, his feast is celebrated with church services, historical reenactments, and cultural events in Sweden and the British Isles, highlighting his contributions to spreading Christianity in Northern Europe.

Thomas Bray (1656–1730) was an English clergyman and pioneering organizer of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel and the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge. Known for founding parish libraries and advocating education in the British colonies, he significantly advanced missionary work and literacy. The Episcopal Church commemorates his life on 15 February with readings from his writings, special prayers, and services that reflect on his legacy of intellectual and spiritual enrichment. The day inspires support for educational and missionary endeavors in the modern church.

Saint Walfrid (also known as Walfroy, d. 615) was a Frankish hermit who established a monastery near Tours and became renowned for his ascetic life and spiritual guidance. Believed to possess gifts of prophecy and healing, he attracted disciples to his community devoted to prayer and manual labor. His influence helped shape early monasticism in Gaul. On 15 February, devotees honor his memory with monasteries opening for pilgrims, recitations of his vita, and communal liturgies celebrating the monastic virtues he embodied.

On February 15, 2015, twenty-one Coptic Orthodox workers from Egypt were kidnapped and beheaded by ISIS militants on the beach of Sirte, Libya. The Coptic Orthodox Church regards them as martyrs and celebrates this day to honor their courage and witness to Christian faith. Pope Francis and other Christian leaders recognized their sacrifice, bringing global attention to their story. Each year, services are held where prayers, hymns, and readings recall their dedication and ultimate sacrifice. The commemoration strengthens the bonds of the Coptic community and inspires reflection on religious persecution and resilience.

In the Eastern Orthodox Church, February 15 is a fixed feast day honoring a variety of saints, martyrs, and venerable confessors. The faithful gather for Divine Liturgy, where hymns and scripture readings commemorate the steadfast faith of those remembered on this day. Iconography of the saints takes center stage in churches, guiding worshippers in prayer and veneration. The liturgical texts emphasize themes of patience, endurance, and divine grace exemplified by the saints. This observance integrates local ecclesiastical traditions, with additional hymns and remembrances specific to individual Orthodox jurisdictions. It is an integral part of the cycle of the liturgical year, fostering spiritual growth and communal unity.