Holy Innocents
Feast Day: December 28
“Out of Egypt I called my son.” – Matthew 2:15
The feast of the Holy Innocents, celebrated on December 28, honors the young children of Bethlehem who were killed by order of King Herod in his attempt to destroy the newborn Jesus Christ, whom he saw as a threat to his power. These innocent children are recognized as the first martyrs for Christ.
The Slaughter of the Innocents
After the visit of the Magi, Herod became enraged upon learning that they had not returned to tell him where the newborn King of the Jews was. Fearing the loss of his throne, Herod ordered the massacre of all male children two years old and younger in Bethlehem and its surrounding region (Matthew 2:16).
Though the exact number is not recorded, tradition holds that many innocent lives were lost in this cruel and brutal act.
The First Martyrs for Christ
The Church recognizes the Holy Innocents as martyrs, even though they were too young to know Christ personally. By their deaths, they bore witness to the coming of the Messiah, and their sacrifice is remembered as a profound testimony to the darkness of evil and the light of Christ.
These children, though unaware, died in the place of Christ and are now honored as saints in heaven.
A Day of Mourning and Reflection
The feast of the Holy Innocents invites the faithful to mourn not only this ancient tragedy but also to reflect on the innocence of children and the countless lives lost to violence, injustice, and sin in every age.
It is a day to pray for the protection of children, the unborn, and the vulnerable, and to recommit ourselves to defending the dignity of all human life.
Patrons of Children and the Innocent
The Holy Innocents are the patron saints of babies, children, and victims of violence and abuse. Their feast falls within the Octave of Christmas, reminding the Church that the joy of Christ’s birth is accompanied by the reality of the world’s brokenness—and by God’s ultimate triumph over evil.
A Witness to Innocence and Redemption
The Holy Innocents remind the faithful that suffering and injustice do not have the final word. Their deaths, though tragic, are crowned with the victory of eternal life with Christ. They shine as witnesses to the preciousness of every human life.
Holy Innocents, pray for us!
