April 22

On April 22, the Christian liturgical calendar celebrates a variety of feast days including Acepsimas of Hnaita and companions in the Catholic Church, Saint Arwald, Saints Epipodius and Alexander, Hudson Stuck and John Muir in the Episcopal tradition, Saint Opportuna of Montreuil, Popes Caius and Soter, Saint Senorina, and the Eastern Orthodox commemorations. These observances honor the faith, sacrifice, and missionary work of early martyrs, clergy, and lay figures. The diversity of rites reflects the rich tapestry of Christian history and devotion. Special masses, prayers, and community gatherings take place in churches worldwide. Each feast provides an opportunity to reflect on spiritual heritage and the enduring impact of these figures.

Saint Acepsimas of Hnaita and his companions were fourth-century Christian martyrs who suffered persecution for their faith in Persia. Their devotion and endurance under torture became a powerful testament to early Christian witness. The Catholic Church honors their memory on April 22 with special liturgies and prayers. The faithful reflect on their courage and the enduring strength of faith in the face of adversity. Devotional acts such as reciting their prayers foster spiritual solidarity with the martyrs.

Saint Arwald, once the king of the Isle of Wight in the seventh century, is remembered for his conversion to Christianity and ultimate martyrdom by King Caedwalla of Wessex. His feast on April 22 celebrates his heritage as a bridge between pagan traditions and the Christian faith in early medieval England. Local churches and historical societies on the Isle of Wight host commemorative services and talks about his life. Arwald’s legacy highlights themes of faith, identity, and cultural transition. Pilgrims and history enthusiasts honor his memory with visits to sites associated with his reign.

Saints Epipodius and Alexander were close companions of Saint Denis and were martyred in Lyon during Roman persecutions in the mid-third century. Their steadfast faith and charitable deeds are celebrated each year on April 22 in various Christian communities. The liturgy includes readings about their witness and prayers for courage in adversity. Faithful gather to honor their sacrifice and remember the origins of Christianity in Gaul. The commemoration underscores the enduring bond of Christian friendship and solidarity.

Hudson Stuck was an Episcopal priest and Alaskan missionary born in 1863 who became renowned for leading the first successful ascent of Denali (Mount McKinley) in 1913. His work among indigenous communities in Alaska and advocacy for their rights earned him lasting respect. The Episcopal Church honors his life and achievements on April 22 with special prayers and remembrances. His dual legacy of spiritual care and exploration continues to inspire mountaineers and faith communities alike. Annual services often include reflections on stewardship of the wilderness and social justice.

John Muir (1838–1914) was a pioneering naturalist and advocate for the preservation of wilderness in the United States. Founder of the Sierra Club, he played a key role in establishing national parks such as Yosemite and Sequoia. His writings and activism inspired generations to protect wild places. On April 22, the Episcopal Church commemorates his profound spiritual connection to nature and his enduring environmental legacy. Services often highlight creation care and include prayers for stewardship of the earth.

Opportuna of Montreuil was a Benedictine abbess known for her humble service and spiritual wisdom. Leading a community of nuns in northern France, she earned a reputation for ascetic practices and charitable care for the poor. Her gentle guidance and reputed miracles attracted pilgrims seeking counsel and healing. Each year on April 22, her feast honors themes of piety, mercy, and dedication to contemplative life. Traditions include sharing stories of her counsel and reflecting on the power of quiet leadership.

Serving as Pope from 283 to 296 during times of persecution, Caius strengthened the Christian community in Rome. Tradition credits him with organizing parishes and founding churches such as the Basilica on the Appian Way. He is honored for his pastoral care, courage under pressure, and devotion to unity within the fledgling Church. His feast on April 22 celebrates his steadfast witness and the development of Church structures that supported the faithful. Liturgical readings often recall his defense of the vulnerable and care for the needy.

Pope Soter led the Roman Church circa 167–174, a period of consolidation after severe persecutions. He is known for writing one of the earliest surviving papal letters, urging unity and love among Christians. Soter emphasized proper celebration of Easter and supported those suffering for their faith. Venerated as a saint and martyr, his April 22 feast highlights his teachings on repentance, charity, and communal worship. Churches commemorate his leadership through readings from his correspondence and reflections on early Christian unity.

On April 22, the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar honors multiple saints, including Martyr Sabbas the Goth and Venerable Theodore the Studite. Services feature special hymns called troparia and kontakia that extol their faith and endurance. Readings from the Acts and epistles recall early persecutions and monastic virtues. Icons of the commemorated saints are venerated during the Divine Liturgy, and many parishes conclude with processions and communal meals. This fixed feast preserves ancient traditions of the Byzantine Rite and connects believers with centuries of Orthodox spiritual heritage.