May 22

On May 22, the Christian calendar commemorates several saints whose lives exemplify faith, sacrifice, and devotion. Castus and Emilius are remembered as early companions who endured persecution for spreading the Gospel in Roman Africa. St. Fulk and St. Romanus of Subiaco are honored for their pious lives and contributions to monasticism, while St. Humilita is venerated for her humility and charitable works. St. Rita of Cascia is celebrated as the patron saint of impossible causes, inspiring believers with her unwavering prayer life. Michael Hồ Đình Hy, one of the Vietnamese Martyrs, is honored for his courage in maintaining his faith under oppressive regimes. In Eastern Orthodox churches, a more expansive list of saints and martyrs is observed on this date, accompanied by liturgical hymns and readings. This feast day invites the faithful to reflect on the examples of holiness and perseverance demonstrated by these saints.

On May 22, Ukrainian Orthodox Christians honor the transfer of Saint Nicholas’s relics from Myra (modern-day Turkey) to Bari, Italy, in 1087. The event is celebrated with special church services, processions, and the chanting of hymns in praise of the beloved saint. In Bari, pilgrims flock to the Basilica di San Nicola, while in Ukraine, faithful attend local parishes to receive blessings and venerate relics. Saint Nicholas is revered as a protector of children and sailors, and his intercession is sought for miracles and deliverance. Icon exhibitions and theological seminars are often held to explore the historical and spiritual significance of the translation. The commemorative day strengthens ties between Eastern and Western Christian traditions and highlights the universal veneration of Saint Nicholas.

Saints Castus and Emilius were lay Christians arrested under Emperor Diocletian around 250 AD in North Africa. They endured torture and ultimately were beheaded for refusing to renounce their faith. Their steadfast courage became an enduring symbol for early Christian communities. Over centuries, their relics were venerated and churches dedicated in their honor. The Roman Martyrology assigns their feast day to May 22, remembered in liturgies and devotional practices. Their example continues to inspire believers in facing trials with conviction.

Saint Fulk, sometimes called Foulques, is commemorated on May 22 in various Christian denominations. Though historical records are scarce, tradition credits him with a life of monastic discipline and charitable service. He is remembered for his pastoral care, guidance to the faithful, and support for the needy. Local liturgies and hagiographies preserve stories of his humility and faithfulness. Pilgrimages to sites associated with Saint Fulk occur in parts of France and Italy. Devotees honor him as a model of dedication to spiritual life and care for others.

Saint Humilitas was born in Rimini, Italy, in the late 13th century. She embraced religious life as a Benedictine nun, dedicating herself to contemplative prayer and poverty. She founded a convent in Faenza known for its charitable outreach and spiritual formation. Despite facing opposition from local authorities, she remained steadfast in her faith and mission. Her canonization honored a legacy of humility and compassion that resonates to this day. Pilgrims visit her shrine to seek her intercession and reflect on the power of selfless service.

Michael Hồ Đình Hy was born into a prominent Catholic family in 1829 in Vietnam. During the Nguyễn dynasty's persecution of Christians, he risked his life to teach the faith and aid persecuted believers. Arrested in the 1860s, he refused to renounce Christianity and endured imprisonment and torture. He was ultimately executed in Saigon, becoming a powerful symbol of faith and sacrifice. Pope John Paul II canonized him among the 117 Vietnamese Martyrs in 1988. His feast on May 22 honors his unwavering devotion and highlights the struggle for religious freedom.

According to tradition, Quiteria was one of nine royal sisters in ancient Iberia who devoted themselves to Christianity. She refused an arranged marriage, choosing instead a life of consecrated virginity and service. Betrayed by her family and condemned, she was beheaded for steadfastly refusing to abandon her faith. Her cult spread from the Iberian Peninsula to Latin America, inspiring churches and local festivals. On May 22, devotees celebrate with processions, music, and rituals blending Christian devotion with regional folklore. Pilgrims invoke her intercession for protection against snakebites and for personal healing.

Born in 1381 in Roccaporena, Italy, Rita endured a difficult marriage and suffered personal tragedies before entering an Augustinian convent. She dedicated herself to prayer, penance, and service to the poor, earning a reputation as a peacemaker. A wound on her forehead—seen as a partial stigmata—symbolizes her deep participation in Christ's suffering. Countless miracles of healing and reconciliation have been attributed to her intercession. Canonized in 1900, she is invoked by those facing desperate or seemingly impossible situations. On May 22, pilgrims bring roses to her shrine in Cascia, echoing the story of a blooming rose in winter.

Saint Romanus lived as a recluse in the caves near Subiaco, Italy, during the early 6th century. He provided food and spiritual support to a young Benedict of Nursia during his hermitage, fostering Benedict's monastic calling. After Benedict founded his own communities, Romanus continued his solitary life, later establishing a monastery. His humility and dedication to contemplative prayer influenced the emerging Benedictine order. The Church commemorates him on May 22, reflecting on his role in birthing Western monastic spirituality. Pilgrims visit the Subiaco caves and nearby abbeys to honor his lasting legacy of hospitality and devotion.

On May 22, Eastern Orthodox Christians remember a diverse assembly of saints, martyrs, and holy elders. Commemorations may include early martyrs, revered bishops, and monastic founders whose lives exemplified faith and endurance. Liturgical services feature special hymns, readings, and prayers drawn from the Menaion for this date. Parishes often hold processions and communal meals to foster unity and remembrance of the holy predecessors. The roster of commemorations may vary between Greek, Russian, and other Orthodox traditions. Observing this day connects the faithful with the historical tapestry of the Church and its spiritual heritage.