Day of the Innocents

December 28, Sunday

Day of the Innocents
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The Day of the Holy Innocents is a Christian day of remembrance, observed on December 28, dedicated to the holy Innocent children who were killed in Bethlehem by order of King Herod after the birth of Jesus Christ. In different countries, this day is also known as the Feast of the Holy Innocents or the Day of the Innocents.

Biblical basis
The event is described in the Gospel of Matthew. Hearing from the Magi about the birth of the Messiah, King Herod, fearing the loss of his power, ordered the killing of all boys under two years old in Bethlehem and its surroundings. Jesus was saved thanks to the flight of the Holy Family to Egypt.

Date and traditions in different countries
December 28 is observed:

* in the Catholic Church as the Feast of the Holy Innocents
* in Anglican and some Protestant traditions
* in many countries of Europe and Latin America, where the day has taken on popular customs

In the Orthodox tradition, the memory of the Innocent children is observed on December 29 according to the new style.

Spiritual significance
The Day of the Holy Innocents symbolizes:

* innocence and purity
* sacrifice in the name of Christ
* the tragedy of human cruelty
* hope for salvation

The children are honored as the first martyrs who suffered for Christ.

Folk customs and modern celebration
Different cultures have developed their own traditions:

* in Spain and Latin American countries, the day is known as Día de los Santos Inocentes and is accompanied by pranks and jokes similar to April Fool’s Day
* in some regions, it is customary to ask for “innocent” gifts or treats
* in church settings, the day is observed in prayer and remembrance of the victims

Thus, the day combines both serious religious meaning and elements of popular humor.

Place in the Christmas cycle
The Day of the Holy Innocents falls within the Christmas period and follows immediately after:

* the Nativity of Christ
* the feast of Saint Stephen, the first martyr
* the feast of Saint John the Apostle

These days together highlight different forms of witness to faith: martyrdom, love, and sacrifice.

Meaning of the day today
Today, the Day of the Holy Innocents reminds us of the value of every human life, especially the lives of children, calls for compassion, protection of the weak, and responsibility for the consequences of cruelty and injustice. It also encourages reflection on how faith and humanity can confront fear and violence in the world.
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Day of the Innocents in other years

Day of the Innocents in other countries

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