November 26

Christian feast days on November 26th honor a diverse group of saints and ascetics known for their devotion and service. Among them are Alypius the Stylite, famous for his pillar asceticism; Pope Siricius, an early bishop of Rome; and John Berchmans, a revered Jesuit scholastic. Oriental Orthodox, Eastern Orthodox, and Anglican traditions also commemorate Stylianos of Paphlagonia and Isaac Watts. Each feast offers insights into the rich tapestry of Christian history and spirituality. Many churches observe special liturgies, readings, and prayers in their memory.

Saint Alypius the Stylite was a Byzantine monk renowned for his extreme ascetic practice of living atop a pillar for decades near Adrianople. Born in 493, he embraced the stylite tradition to seek spiritual purification through isolation and prayer. His unwavering faith attracted pilgrims and inspired accounts of miracles and steadfast discipline. The Church celebrates his feast on November 26th, reflecting on themes of sacrifice, perseverance, and the pursuit of holiness. Liturgies often feature readings about his life and hymns praising his dedication.

Saint Basolus, also known as Basle, was a Frankish hermit who lived in the early 7th century near the city of Besançon (modern-day France). Renouncing worldly possessions, he dedicated his life to prayer and solitude along the banks of the Doubs River. His holiness and miracles drew followers who established a monastic community after his death. November 26th celebrates his feast, inviting the faithful to reflect on humility, contemplation, and the value of solitary devotion. Churches may hold special prayers and recount his life of simple, steadfast faith.

Saint Bellinus served as the bishop of Padua in the early 12th century, guiding his diocese through times of reform and challenge. Known for pastoral care and defense of Church teachings, he confronted secular powers to protect ecclesiastical rights. Tradition holds that he was martyred for his convictions, inspiring devotion among the faithful. His feast on November 26th honors his courage, teaching, and witness to integrity. Many Paduans visit local churches to seek his intercession and recall his commitment to justice and charity.

Saint Conrad of Constance, born in 900 AD, became bishop of Constance and was celebrated for his austere lifestyle, learning, and devotion. A patron of students and the clergy, he compiled theological works and supported reform movements within the Church. His leadership brought spiritual renewal and strengthened ecclesial discipline. November 26th marks his feast, with liturgies highlighting his contributions to scholarship and pastoral care. Communities honor him as a model of intellectual rigor and humble service.

Saint Ethelwine lived as a hermit in the marshes near Athelney Abbey in England during the 9th century. He embraced solitude and prayer, supporting the monastic community founded by King Alfred. Legends speak of his humble guidance and miraculous interventions. On November 26th, his feast honors his devotion to silence, simplicity, and spiritual guidance. Pilgrims reflect on themes of solitude and divine encounter, inspired by his life of prayerful retreat.

Saint John Berchmans was a Belgian Jesuit novice who died at age 22 in 1621, renowned for his deep spirituality and commitment to small tasks. He balanced studies with prayer, embodying the Jesuit motto through ordinary actions offered for greater glory. Canonized in 1888, his feast on November 26th inspires students and youth to find holiness in everyday life. Churches and Jesuit communities hold special devotions, invoking his guidance for perseverance, humility, and love of God.

Pope Siricius led the Church of Rome during the late 4th century, serving as Bishop from 384 until his death in 399. He is remembered for issuing several important decretals that helped shape early canon law. Siricius was instrumental in strengthening ties between the Western Church and secular rulers, notably Emperors Theodosius I and Honorius. He defended the autonomy of the Roman See against Arianism and other theological disputes of his time. His correspondences reflect his commitment to clerical discipline and the pastoral care of his flock. This feast day honors his contributions to the development of Church structures and governance.

Stylianos of Paphlagonia withdrew into the mountains as a hermit, dedicating his life to constant prayer and ascetic practice. Over time, stories spread of his miraculous healings, especially of children, earning him the title of protector of the young. Pilgrims sought his intercession for health and spiritual strength, and churches were later built in his name. His compassionate reputation led to his formal recognition as a saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church. Each year on November 26th, believers attend liturgies and bless infants and children in his honor. This commemoration highlights themes of mercy, faith, and the enduring power of prayer.

Sylvester Gozzolini began his spiritual journey as a canon before choosing the hermit’s life of solitude and prayer in the Italian hills. He attracted followers who admired his strict devotion and humility, leading to the establishment of the Sylvestrine congregation. Under his guidance, the order emphasized manual labor, communal living, and silent contemplation. Though never formally canonized by a pope, Sylvester was beatified in the 17th century and remains the spiritual father of the Sylvestrines. His feast on November 26th invites reflection on the balance between work and prayer in monastic life. Today’s observances include special prayers, readings from his writings, and a call to personal reform in the spirit of his teachings.

Isaac Watts revolutionized Christian worship with his original hymns, moving beyond the exclusive use of psalm paraphrases in congregational singing. His most famous works, such as "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" and "Joy to the World," remain staples in hymnals worldwide. A prolific author, he also wrote theological treatises and educational works for children. The Episcopal Church (USA) honors his legacy on November 26th, inviting congregations to reflect on the power of music in faith and devotion. Services often include singing a selection of his hymns and studying his writings on worship. Watts’s influence extends to modern hymnody, underscoring the enduring relationship between doctrine, poetry, and music.

November 26th in the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar is dedicated to a variety of saints, martyrs, and holy figures celebrated for their enduring faith. The day’s services include festal hymns, readings from the lives of the commemorated saints, and the Divine Liturgy. Many Orthodox communities honor the memory of these figures through processions, icon veneration, and charitable acts. The faithful reflect on the virtues of the saints, seeking their intercessions and inspiration. This liturgical observance strengthens communal bonds as worshippers gather in prayer and fellowship. It underscores the Orthodox emphasis on the communion of saints and the living tradition of the Church.