Today, Christians begin the sacred season of Lent in this year of grace 2025.

On March 2, the Franciscan family and the people of the Czech Republic honor the memory of Saint Agnes of Bohemia (Agnes of Prague).

On February 25, Franciscans remember Blessed Sebastian de Aparicio (1502–1600) who lived a highly unusual life on two continents, first as a devout layman and then as a Franciscan friar.

On February 19, Franciscans celebrate the memory of Saint Conrad of Piacenza (c. 1290–1351), a lay penitent hermit known for his life of contemplative prayer.

On February 8, Franciscans honor the memory of Blessed Jacoba (or Jacopa) di Settesoli (c. 1190-1238), a Roman lay woman of an aristocratic family who became a close friend and supporter of St. Francis.

On February 7, the Franciscan family celebrates the memory of Saint Colette (1381–1447), who led a major reform effort among Franciscans.

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.