On February 6, Christians celebrate the memory of the first Japanese martyrs – 26 Franciscans and Jesuits crucified at Nagasaki in 1597.

On January 31, Franciscans remember Blessed Ludovica (Louise) Albertoni (1473-1533), renowned for her works of charity and deep mystical union with God.

On January 30, Franciscans honor the memory of St. Hyacintha Mariscotti (1585-1640), a nun of the Franciscan Third Order Regular. Hyacintha’s life illustrates that conversion to deep, authentic Gospel values at times takes unusual paths.

On January 27, the Church celebrates the memory of Saint Angela Merici (1474–1540), famous for her work as an educator of young women.

On January 23, Franciscans honor the memory of St. Marianne Cope, the first American Franciscan woman to be canonized.

On January 14, Franciscans honor the memory of Blessed Odoric of Pordenone (c. 1286–1331), one of the most prominent missionaries of the later Middle Ages. 

On January 11, Franciscans honor the memory of Saint Thomas of Cori (1655–1729), a Franciscan who is not well known outside the region of Rome; he was canonized only in 1999.

On January 16, Franciscans celebrate the feast of St. Berard and four friar companions, the first martyrs of the Order, who were beheaded in Morocco on this date in 1220.

Now available, our website tutorials help you make the most of the Digital Collections from the Commission on the Franciscan Intellectual-Spiritual Tradition and the American Academy of Franciscan History.