Catholic Feast Days in January (with FREE Calendar)
Hello Mamas, are you looking forward to next year’s Liturgical Year? If so, this post is for you as we look together at the Catholic Feast Days in January.
These feast days provide a unique opportunity to reflect on the lives and teachings of saints, deepen our faith, and strengthen our connection to the Catholic Church.
Whether you are a lifelong Catholic or new to the faith, let us explore the feast days in January and embrace the rich traditions and spirituality they offer.
Learning More About Catholic Feast Days in January
January Dedication: Month of the Holy Name of Jesus
The month of January holds a special significance in the Catholic faith as it is dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus. This devotion calls upon Catholics to reflect upon and honor the name of Jesus, recognizing its power and significance in their spiritual journey.
During January, Catholics are encouraged to incorporate the Holy Name of Jesus into their daily prayers and spiritual practices. This can include reciting prayers such as the Jesus Prayer, which invites believers to continuously repeat the simple invocation, “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”
By dedicating this month to the Holy Name of Jesus, Catholics embrace the opportunity for spiritual growth, drawing closer to the heart of Christ and experiencing His love and mercy in their lives.
Check out this post to see the rest of the 12 traditional Catholic monthly devotions.
Liturgical Year: Catholic Feast Days in January
You can download the free January 2024 liturgical calendar without the need to give away your e-mail. Just look for the download button in the lower part of this post. Just click here for the free February 2024 Catholic liturgical calendar.
You can also check out the New Year’s Catholic resolutions if you’re looking for inspiration and more ideas in making your spiritual resolutions for the New Year.
Receiving a plenary indulgence by praying at a Franciscan nativity scene can also be included in your January liturgical calendar, you can receive the grace until February 2.
| January Dates | Feast Days |
|---|---|
| January 1 | Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God |
| January 2 | Saint Basil the Great and Saint Gregory Nazianzen |
| January 4 | Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton |
| January 5 | Saint John Neumann |
| January 6 | Epiphany |
| Sunday after Epiphany | Baptism of the Lord |
| January 13 | Saint Hilary |
| January 20 | Saint Sebastian |
| January 21 | Saint Agnes |
| January 22 | Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children |
| January 24 | Saint Francis de Sales |
| January 25 | Conversion of Saint Paul |
| January 26 | Saint Timothy and Saint Titus |
| January 28 | Saint Thomas Aquinas |
| January 31 | Saint John Bosco |
| 3rd Sunday | Santo Niño (Holy Child Jesus) in the Philippines |
Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
The Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God is a significant feast day in the Catholic Church, celebrated on January 1st. It is a time to honor and reflect on the important role that Mary played as the mother of Jesus Christ.
This solemnity also emphasizes the divine motherhood of Mary, affirming her as the Mother of God. The feast day is celebrated highlighting Mary’s unique and special relationship with Jesus, as well as her obedience and devotion to God.
It is a time for Catholics to seek Mary’s intercession and to ask for her guidance and protection. Many churches hold special Masses and prayers on this day to honor Mary and to recognize her as a model of faith and devotion.
The Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God is a time for believers to come together and express our love and reverence for the Blessed Mother, acknowledging her as a powerful and loving advocate in our spiritual lives.
This is one of the feast days that are very meaningful to me because for the longest time, even as a cradle Catholic, I thought that we celebrated this feast and attended Mass (since childhood) because it’s the new year – someone was obviously not paying attention to her religion classes! Arggg! I can no longer remember the exact year I learned about it, but it’s probably a few years before/after I got married. I felt so ashamed about this and this is one of the reasons why I want to learn more about my Catholic faith.
This post may contain affiliate links. This means that I get a small commission when you buy something by clicking through the links in this post at NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU. In other words, even if you go straight to their website, you will pay the same price. Read the full disclosure policy here.This is also a good time to renew your Total Consecration to the Blessed Virgin Mary. I did the consecration in July 2021 and I decided to renew it every January 1. If you haven’t done the consecration yet, I encourage you to do it. It is such a beautiful thing to do and a way to learn more and get closer to our Blessed Mother.
Floating Feasts: Epiphany and Baptism of Our Lord
In addition to the fixed feast days in January, two floating feasts are celebrated during the month. These feasts hold significant meaning in the Catholic faith and are deeply rooted in tradition. The first floating feast is the Solemnity of Epiphany, which is observed on the Sunday between January 2nd and January 8th.
Though I grew up in the Philippines celebrating Three Kings on January 6, I read an article I think last year that there are places (like America) where the celebration is moved to the nearest Sunday. But here in Spain, the Epiphany is always celebrated on the 6th of January.
Epiphany is a joyful celebration that marks the arrival of the Wise Men to visit the infant Jesus in the nativity place.
The second floating feast is the Baptism of Our Lord, which is celebrated on the Sunday following Epiphany. In countries where Epiphany is celebrated on a Sunday, the Baptism of the Lord is moved on the Monday after the Epiphany.
This feast commemorates the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. It represents an important event in Jesus’ life and marks the beginning of his public ministry. The baptism of Jesus signifies his acceptance of his divine mission and his submission to God’s will. It is a moment of great significance in the life of Jesus and holds important theological meaning for believers.
These floating feasts in January provide Catholics with special opportunities to reflect on important moments in the life of Jesus. They invite believers to contemplate the significance of Jesus’ birth, the visit of the Wise Men, and his baptism.
The Lives of the Saints Celebrated in January
The month of January is also marked by the celebration of several extraordinary saints within the Catholic Church. These holy men and women have left a lasting impact on the faithful through their unwavering devotion and inspiring lives.
Let us take a closer look at some saints whose lives, contributions, and inspirations are particularly honored in January: St. Francis de Sales, St. John Bosco, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, and St. Thomas Aquinas.
| Feast Day | January Dates | Saint(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Feast of Sts. Basil and Gregory Nazianzen | January 2 | Sts. Basil and Gregory Nazianzen |
| Feast of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton | January 4 | St. Elizabeth Ann Seton |
| Feast of St. John Neumann | January 5 | St. John Neumann |
| Feast of St. Hilary | January 13 | St. Hilary |
| Feast of St. Agnes | January 21 | St. Agnes |
| Feast of St. Francis de Sales | January 24 | St. Francis de Sales |
| Conversion of St. Paul | January 25 | St. Paul |
| Feast of Sts. Timothy and Titus | January 26 | Sts. Timothy and Titus |
| Feast of St. Thomas Aquinas | January 28 | St. Thomas Aquinas |
| Feast of St. John Bosco | January 31 | St. John Bosco |
These feast days and observances provide Catholics with opportunities to reflect on and learn from the lives of these saints. By celebrating their contributions to the Catholic faith, Catholics can deepen their spirituality and draw inspiration from their examples.
St. Francis de Sales
St. Francis de Sales, whose feast day is on January 24th, is renowned as the patron saint of writers and the hearing impaired.
Born in 1567 in France, he dedicated his life to spreading the teachings of the Catholic faith and was instrumental in the Catholic Reformation.
St. Francis de Sales authored numerous spiritual writings, including the classic “Introduction to the Devout Life,” which continues to inspire believers to this day.
St. John Bosco
St. John Bosco celebrated on January 31st, holds a special place in the hearts of school children, editors, and apprentices.
Born in Italy in 1815, he founded the Salesians of Don Bosco, an order dedicated to young people’s education and spiritual formation. St. John Bosco believed in the power of kindness and love in guiding the youth towards holiness and academic success.
His tireless efforts continue to benefit countless individuals around the world.
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first native-born American saint, is honored on January 4th.
Born in 1774, she played a significant role in establishing Catholic education in the United States. Despite facing numerous hardships, including the death of her husband and the challenges of raising her children as a single mother, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton remained steadfast in her faith.
She eventually founded the Sisters of Charity and dedicated her life to caring for the poor and the education of children.
St. Thomas Aquinas
St. Thomas Aquinas, a brilliant theologian and philosopher, is a Catholic saint remembered on January 28th.
Born in Italy in the 13th century, he made significant contributions to Catholic theology and academic philosophy. St. Thomas Aquinas’s writings, most notably the “Summa Theologica” continue to shape and influence Catholic thought.
His pursuit of truth and harmony between faith and reason serves as an example for believers seeking a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith.
Devotions and Traditions in January
January is a month filled with rich Catholic devotions and traditions that deepen the spiritual journey of believers. One popular tradition is the setting up of a feast table to honor the liturgical year and the feast days of January. These tables serve as visual reminders of the faith and typically feature symbols and items that represent the saints and feasts of the month.
I love this idea of a feast table that I once started by preparing an altar with a Sto. niño image during the feast day, but I was not able to continue. Hopefully, this year I’ll be consistent because I find it a good tradition to follow, especially if you have little kids because it can also be a way for them to learn visually.
Another important devotion in January is the recitation of the Rosary. Catholics turn to this powerful prayer to seek the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and to gain spiritual strength.
Attending Mass on feast days is also a significant practice during this month, as it allows Catholics to participate in the Eucharistic celebration of the specific saint or event being commemorated.
Additionally, the Catholic Church designates January 22nd as the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of the Unborn. On this day, Catholics come together to pray for the protection of the unborn and the promotion of a culture of life. This important observance highlights the Church’s commitment to defending the dignity and sanctity of every human life. Table: Feast Table Traditions in January
| Tradition | Description |
|---|---|
| Feast Table | A table set up to honor the feast days of January, featuring symbols and items related to the saints and feasts of the month. |
| Rosary | The recitation of the Rosary – a powerful prayer that seeks the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. |
| Mass Attendance | Attending Mass on feast days to participate in the celebration of the specific saint or event being commemorated. |
| Day of Prayer for Legal Protection of Unborn | A dedicated day for Catholics to pray for the protection of the unborn and the promotion of a culture of life. |
These devotions and traditions in January provide Catholics with meaningful ways to engage with their faith, connect with the liturgical calendar, and draw closer to God. By participating in these practices, believers can deepen their spirituality and find inspiration in the rich traditions of the Catholic Church.
Feast of Santo Niño (Holy Child Jesus)
The Feast of Santo Niño, also known as the Feast of the Holy Child Jesus and commonly known as Sinulog is a significant and joyous celebration in the Philippines a symbol of the birth of Catholicism in the Philippines more than 500 years ago (500 years in January 2021).
It is held every third Sunday of January in the city of Cebu, but it is also observed in various parts of the country and even in other countries with Filipino communities.
The festival is marked with colorful processions, street dancing, and lively music, as devotees honor the Holy Child Jesus, who is considered the patron saint of Cebu. The highlight of the festivities is the grand Sinulog parade, where participants dressed in vibrant costumes dance and chant “Pit Senyor!” as a sign of devotion and praise.
Pilgrims from all over the country and even from abroad flock to Cebu to take part in the celebration and witness the religious and cultural significance of the event. The Feast of Santo Niño is a testament to the fervent faith and deep-seated spirituality of the Filipino people. It showcases the unique blend of religious devotion and joyful exuberance that is characteristic of the country’s celebrations.
Even if I grew up in Bohol (a neighboring island of Cebu), this was not a huge celebration in our parish. But when I worked in Barcelona, Spain in 2007, Sinulog was a huge celebration in the Filipino community up until now. I became part of VISMIN, the organization that is in-charge in the preparation of the celebration of the Feast of Sto. Niño in the Filipino Parish in Barcelona, and most of the time participated in the celebration.
But after I got married, my attendance became very seldom since we already lived far from the city and with little kids. Hopefully, we can attend this year.
Books and Resources for January Feast Days
When it comes to celebrating and learning more about the feast days in January, there are a variety of books and resources available to Catholics.
Whether you’re looking for in-depth biographies of saints, guides to specific feast days, or resources for family devotions and activities, these recommendations will help deepen your understanding and appreciation of these special days.
If you’re interested in diving deeper into the lives of the saints celebrated in January, these books are a great place to start:
- “Picture Book of Saints“ by Lawrence G. Lovasik: This beautifully illustrated book introduces children and adults alike to the lives and stories of over 100 saints, including those celebrated in January.
- “Saints: A Year in Faith and Art“ by Rosa Giorgi: This beautifully illustrated book provides a visual journey through the liturgical year, including detailed explanations and insights into the feast days of January.
Importance of Celebrating Catholic Feast Days
Celebrating Catholic feast days is an integral part of the Catholic faith and a meaningful aspect of one’s spiritual journey. These feast days hold immense significance as they provide Catholics with an opportunity to connect with the liturgical calendar, deepen their understanding of the faith, and strengthen their relationship with God. By commemorating these feast days, Catholics participate in a collective act of worship and join the rich tradition of the Church.
One of the primary reasons for celebrating feast days is to honor and learn from the lives and teachings of the saints. Through the feast days, Catholics gain inspiration from the examples set forth by these holy men and women, seeking to emulate their virtues and grow in holiness themselves. The communion of saints, a fundamental belief in Catholicism, is also emphasized during these celebrations. Catholics recognize that the saints are not distant figures but rather companions on their spiritual journey, interceding for them and providing guidance along the way. The Liturgical Calendar: A Guide and Reminder
The liturgical calendar serves as a guide and reminder of the important events in the life of Jesus and the Church. By observing feast days, Catholics engage in a rhythm of worship that follows the milestones of salvation history. This adherence to the liturgical calendar helps individuals develop a deeper understanding of the mysteries of faith and cultivates a sense of unity among believers worldwide.
Moreover, celebrating feast days fosters a sense of community and belonging among Catholics. It provides an opportunity for family and friends to come together, share in prayer and worship, and rejoice in the faith they hold in common. These communal celebrations strengthen the unity of the Church and reinforce the bonds of faith among believers.
Choose Feast Days According to Your Family’s traditions, Origins, or Choices
One of the beauties of our Catholic faith is the richness of feast days throughout the liturgical year. But it doesn’t mean we have to celebrate them all, because if we try to do so, we will just end up stressed in my opinion.
Choose the feast days to commemorate in your home according to your family’s traditions, origins, and choices. Talk to your husband to help you decide which feasts to celebrate.
In our home, though the feast of the Santo Niño is not celebrated by Spanish people, I always want to celebrate at home as part of my origins since it’s a huge celebration in the Philippines.
And as time goes by, you will discover new feast days that you can add to your list. For example, as I was researching for this post, I found out that January 28 is the feast of Saint Thomas Aquinas, and it’s also my husband’s birthday. So, it would be nice to also introduce the saint to the kids and learn more about him in January. He can be my husband’s patron saint, too!
FREE Liturgical Calendar for January PDF
I made a Liturgical calendar for January, but I didn’t put all the saints, so you have more freedom to choose the feast days you want to celebrate in your home. And if you live in other parts of the world, maybe the floating feasts are celebrated on different dates, so just move them.
You can download this free without the need to give away your e-mail add!
You can also use this as a general calendar if you don’t have one yet, so, you can merge your family schedule and the liturgical feasts in one calendar for easier scheduling.
This is only available in A4 because I recently found out that you can adjust the settings to “fit paper size” if you are using a different paper size. It’s a time saver on my part. Please let me know if it works well if you printed this using a US letter document paper size.
FAQs About Catholic Feast Days in January
Are there any Holy Days of Obligation in January?
In the Roman Catholic Church, the only Holy Day of Obligation in January is the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, observed on January 1st.
What is the significance of the solemnity of Mary, Mother of God?
The Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God is a day that honors the Blessed Virgin Mary as the mother of Jesus. It is a time for Catholics to reflect on Mary’s role in salvation and her importance in the life of the Church.
Are there any other feast days or celebrations in January that are important in the Catholic calendar?
Yes, January also marks the celebration of the Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul on January 25th and the Feast Day of St. Thomas Aquinas on January 28th.
What is the significance of the feast of the Baptism of the Lord?
The feast of the Baptism of the Lord, celebrated on January 6th, marks the end of the Christmas season in the Catholic Church and the beginning of Ordinary Time. It commemorates the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist in the Jordan River.
Who is Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton?
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, also known as Mother Seton, was the first person born in the United States to be canonized as a saint. She is recognized for establishing the first Catholic girls’ school in the U.S. and for her dedication to education and charity.
What is the importance of Saint John Bosco’s feast day?
Saint John Bosco was renowned for his work with disadvantaged youth and is considered the patron saint of Catholic schools, making his feast day particularly significant for educators and students in the Catholic community.
How can Catholics celebrate and honor the feast days in January?
Catholics can honor the feast days in January by attending Mass, learning about the lives of the saints being celebrated, and incorporating their virtues into their own lives. It is also a time to offer prayers and thanksgiving for the examples of faith and devotion provided by these saints.
Final Thoughts on Catholic Feast Days in January
Catholic feast days in January are an integral part of the Catholic tradition. Through these feast days, Catholics can deepen their spirituality, honor the liturgical year, and find inspiration in the lives of the saints. Let us embrace these opportunities for spiritual growth and celebrate our Catholic heritage.
What feast days are you already celebrating in January? Do you have new feast days to add? Please feel free to share them in the comment section below.
BEFORE YOU GO…
These posts may also interest you:
Prayer For Self-Discipline (To Help You Stay Focus And On Track)
11 Short Daily Catholic Prayers (to Help You Get Through the Day)
Powerful Prayers for Catholic Mothers (with FREE Printable PDF)
