Catholic Feast Days in March
Hello Mamas, here’s a new post for the Catholic feast days in March, as part of the series that I’m making to help us plan our family’s liturgical year accordingly.
Check the first two posts I have in this series if you haven’t yet: Catholic Feast Days in January and Catholic Feast Days in February.
Learning More About Catholic Feast Days in March
The Month of March: Dedicated to Saint Joseph
In the liturgical calendar of the Catholic Church, the month of March is dedicated to Saint Joseph. Celebrated on March 19th, the Feast of Saint Joseph honors the earthly father of Jesus and the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Saint Joseph is revered as the patron saint of fathers, workers, and the universal Church. The month offers a time for devout Catholics to reflect on the virtues of Saint Joseph, known for his humility, faith, and unwavering commitment to God’s divine plan.
This period provides an opportunity for us believers to seek inspiration from the life of Saint Joseph and imitate his virtues in our daily lives, in the hope of improving our spiritual lives during this month.
Liturgical Year: Catholic Feast Days in March
The Lenten season this year will start on March 5 (ash Wednesday) ,making the Liturgical month of March extra special.
You can also check out the New Year’s Catholic resolutions if you’re still looking for inspiration and more ideas in making your spiritual resolutions for the New Year.
| March Dates | Feast Days |
|---|---|
| March 1 | Saint David, Bishop |
| March 3 | Saint Katharine Drexel |
| March 4 | Saint Casimir of Poland |
| March 7 | Saints Perpetua and Felicity, Martyrs |
| March 8 | Saint John of God, Religious |
| March 9 | Saint Frances of Rome |
| March 15 | Saint Louise de Marillac |
| March 17 | Saint Patrick, Bishop, Missionary |
| March 18 | Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, Bishop, Doctor of the Church |
| March 19 | Saint Joseph, Husband of the Virgin Mary |
| March 23 | Saint Turibius of Mogrovejo, Bishop |
| March 25 | Feast of the Annunciation |
Some saint Feast Days in March
1 March: St. David, Bishop
Saint David, celebrated on March 1st, is the patron saint of Wales and a revered figure in the Catholic Church. Born in the 6th century, he became a prominent bishop and the archbishop of Menevia (present-day St. David’s in Pembrokeshire, Wales). Known for his ascetic lifestyle, wisdom, and dedication to spreading Christianity, Saint David played a key role in establishing monastic communities throughout Wales.
He is particularly remembered for his emphasis on humility and simple living. According to legend, during a Synod in the 6th century, a dove alighted on Saint David’s shoulder, a sign of God’s blessing on his words.
Pilgrims from Wales and beyond honor Saint David on his feast day, recognizing his contributions to the growth of Christianity in the region and his legacy as a symbol of Welsh identity and faith.
3 March: St. Katharine Drexel
Saint Katharine Drexel, born on November 26, 1858, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was a remarkable American philanthropist and missionary. The second-wealthiest woman in the United States during her lifetime, she dedicated her life to serving marginalized communities, particularly Native Americans and African Americans. In 1891, she founded the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament for Indians and Colored People, an order focused on education and social work.
Saint Katharine used her substantial inheritance to establish schools, missions, and institutions that aimed to provide quality education and promote social justice. Notably, she founded Xavier University in New Orleans, the only historically black Catholic university in the United States. Her commitment to racial equality and education earned her recognition and respect.
Canonized as a saint by Pope John Paul II in 2000, Saint Katharine Drexel is remembered for her selfless devotion to the less fortunate, breaking down racial barriers, and promoting the values of justice and equality. Her feast day is celebrated on March 3rd, commemorating her inspiring legacy of compassion and service in the face of social injustice.
4 March: St. Casimir of Poland
Saint Casimir of Poland, born on October 3, 1458, was a prince of the Kingdom of Poland and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The son of King Casimir IV Jagiellon and Queen Elisabeth of Austria, he demonstrated early signs of piety and a strong commitment to his faith. Despite being in line for the throne, Saint Casimir chose a life of celibacy and dedicated himself to religious pursuits.
Known for his compassion and humility, Saint Casimir devoted much of his time to prayer, acts of charity, and assisting the less fortunate. He played a key role in encouraging Christian values among the youth and nobility of his time. Saint Casimir’s deep spirituality, sense of justice, and commitment to moral integrity left a lasting impact on those around him.
Saint Casimir died on March 4, 1484, at the young age of 25. He was canonized by Pope Clement VIII in 1602. His feast day, celebrated on March 4th, honors his exemplary life and his role as a patron saint of Poland and Lithuania. Saint Casimir is revered for his devotion to God, self-discipline, and commitment to upholding Christian virtues, making him an enduring symbol of faith and integrity in the Catholic Church.
7 March: Sts. Perpetua and Felicity, Martyrs
Saints Perpetua and Felicity were early Christian martyrs who lived in the Roman province of Africa around the year 203 AD. Perpetua, a young noblewoman, and Felicity, her slave, faced persecution for their Christian faith during the reign of Emperor Septimius Severus.
Perpetua, a mother with an infant son, chronicled their experiences in prison through a diary known as “The Passion of Saints Perpetua and Felicity.” Despite the challenges, including separation from her child and the prospect of facing wild beasts in the arena, Perpetua remained steadfast in her commitment to Christ.
Felicity, pregnant at the time of her imprisonment, gave birth to a daughter in prison. Both women were eventually sentenced to death in the amphitheater. Their courage and unwavering faith during their martyrdom captivated the onlookers.
The feast day of Saints Perpetua and Felicity is celebrated on March 7th, commemorating their sacrifice and dedication to their Christian beliefs. Their story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of faith in the face of adversity and has inspired countless Christians throughout history.
8 March: St. John of God, Religious
Saint John of God, born João Duarte Cidade in Portugal in 1495, had a life filled with twists and turns. After experiencing a difficult period marked by military service and struggles, he found spiritual inspiration. In 1538, while in Spain, John of God had a profound moment of conversion. Struck by a sermon, he felt a calling to help those in need.
In Granada, Spain, John of God began his remarkable journey of compassion. His first act of kindness involved caring for a dying man he found on the streets. Motivated by this experience, he dedicated his life to helping the sick and poor.
John of God founded the Brothers Hospitallers of Saint John of God, a religious order committed to serving the sick and those in distress. His humility, selflessness, and devotion made him a beloved figure, and his order’s work spread throughout Spain.
Saint John of God’s legacy endures, and his feast day is celebrated on March 8th. His life in Spain reflects a transformation from a troubled past to a profound commitment to serving others, leaving an indelible mark on the history of compassionate care.
9 March: St. Frances of Rome
Saint Frances of Rome, born in 1384 in Rome, Italy, was a devoted wife, mother, and religious figure. Despite her aristocratic background, Frances chose a life of piety and service to others. At the age of 12, she entered into an arranged marriage with Lorenzo Ponziani and became a mother to three children.
Frances devoted herself to prayer, often caring for the sick and poor in Rome. Following the deaths of her husband and children, she took her devotion a step further and founded the Oblates of Mary, a community of religious women focused on prayer and serving the needs of the poor.
Known for her visions and mystical experiences, Frances of Rome also left a lasting impact through her spiritual writings. She emphasized the importance of simplicity, humility, and dedication to God. Her commitment to a life of faith and service earned her recognition as a saint, and she was canonized in 1608.
Saint Frances of Rome’s feast day is celebrated on March 9th, commemorating her life of devotion, compassion, and unwavering faith, making her an enduring inspiration for those seeking a balance between spiritual contemplation and active charity.
15 March: St. Louise de Marillac
Saint Louise de Marillac, born in France in 1591, was a kind and compassionate woman. Widowed at an early age, she dedicated her life to helping those in need. Louise co-founded the Daughters of Charity together with Saint Vincent de Paul, a religious community focused on serving the poor and sick.
Her selfless work in hospitals and orphanages made a lasting impact, emphasizing the importance of humility and service. Saint Louise de Marillac, canonized in 1934, is remembered for her devotion to the less fortunate. Her feast day is celebrated on March 15th, honoring her legacy of compassion and charitable service.
17 March: St. Patrick, Bishop, Missionary
The patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick (also known as the Apostle of Ireland) is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. He is known for his missionary zeal, his love for the Irish people, and his unwavering faith.
Saint Patrick, born in Britain around the year 385, was captured by Irish raiders as a youth and taken to Ireland. After six years, he escaped captivity and returned to Britain. Later, he felt a calling to return to Ireland as a Christian missionary. Ordained as a bishop, Saint Patrick is credited with spreading Christianity throughout Ireland, using the three-leafed shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity.
He is traditionally associated with driving snakes out of Ireland, although this may be symbolic. Saint Patrick died on March 17, 461. His feast day, St. Patrick’s Day, is celebrated annually on March 17th, both in Ireland and around the world.
18 March: St. Cyril of Jerusalem, Bishop, Doctor of the Church
A bishop and theologian, Saint Cyril of Jerusalem is known for his catechetical writings, which provide valuable insights into the early Church’s understanding of Christian doctrine. He is one of the four Eastern Doctors of the Church.
Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, born around 315 AD, was a prominent early Christian theologian and bishop. Serving as the Bishop of Jerusalem from 349 to 386, he played a crucial role in the theological debates of his time. Saint Cyril is renowned for his theological works, particularly his “Catecheses,” a series of lectures providing instruction to catechumens preparing for baptism. His teachings focused on the essentials of Christian faith, sacraments, and the significance of the Holy Trinity.
Saint Cyril actively participated in the Council of Constantinople in 381, contributing to the formulation of the Nicene Creed. Recognized for his profound insights into the Christian doctrine, his efforts led to him being honored as a Doctor of the Church. Saint Cyril of Jerusalem’s feast day is celebrated on March 18th, commemorating his significant contributions to Christian theology and education.
19 March: St. Joseph, Husband of the Virgin Mary
Saint Joseph, honored as the foster father of Jesus, holds a revered place in Christian tradition and devotion. According to the Gospels, Joseph was a descendant of King David and a skilled carpenter from Nazareth. His betrothal to Mary, the young Virgin chosen to be the mother of Jesus, took an unexpected turn when he learned of her miraculous conception through the Holy Spirit.
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Note: I highly recommend to consecrate yourself to St. Joseph, if you haven’t done it yet. The book Consecration to St. Joseph by Fr. Donald Calloway is a very-easy-to-follow guide. I did mine on May 2023 and renews it every year (I’ll be starting soon for 2025).
In a testament to his character, Joseph, known for his righteousness and compassion, initially planned to quietly end the engagement to spare Mary from public shame. However, an angelic visitation reassured him of the divine nature of Mary’s pregnancy, urging him to take her as his wife and accept the extraordinary role of being the earthly father to the Son of God.
Joseph played a crucial role in the early life of Jesus, protecting and providing for the Holy Family. He was present at the Nativity, guiding Mary and Jesus through the challenges they faced, including the flight to Egypt to escape King Herod’s massacre of infants.
Despite the limited mention of Joseph in the Gospels, the life of St. Joseph has a huge significance in the Catholic Church as a model of humility, obedience, and trust in God’s providence has had a profound impact on Christian spirituality. Saint Joseph is often referred to as the “Patron of the Universal Church,” and his feast day celebrated on March 19th, is a day of special devotion.
In addition to being the patron of fathers and workers, Saint Joseph is also recognized as the patron of a happy death, reflecting his role as a just and faithful servant of God. His quiet strength and unwavering commitment to his divine responsibilities make Saint Joseph a source of inspiration for believers seeking guidance in their own lives.
Devotion to Saint Joseph has endured through centuries, with various traditions, prayers, and devotions dedicated to him, highlighting the enduring impact of this humble carpenter who played a vital role in the Holy Family and the unfolding of God’s plan for salvation.
23 March: St. Turibius of Mogrovejo, Bishop
San Toribio Alfonso de Mogrovejo, or Saint Turibius of Mogrovejo, was a Spanish prelate born in Mayorga, Spain, in 1538. Appointed as the Archbishop of Lima, Peru, in 1579, he became known for his exceptional efforts in promoting justice, defending the rights of indigenous people, and establishing a strong ecclesiastical infrastructure in the region.
Saint Turibius traveled extensively throughout his archdiocese, often on foot, to ensure that the Christian faith was well-rooted among the local population. He implemented reforms, organized synods, and addressed social issues, earning a reputation for his pastoral care and commitment to the welfare of the people.
His deep compassion for the marginalized and dedication to justice made Saint Turibius a prominent figure in the Catholic Church in South America during the 16th century. Canonized in 1726, his feast day is celebrated on March 23rd, commemorating his legacy as a tireless defender of the faith and advocate for the rights of the indigenous communities in Peru.
25 March: The Feast of the Annunciation
The Feast of the Annunciation, observed on March 25th, marks a crucial moment in the Christian calendar. It commemorates the time when the angel Gabriel told the Virgin Mary that she would have a child, the Son of God. This event is significant because it represents the start of the Incarnation—when God took on human form.
The story of the Annunciation is found in the Gospel of Luke (1:26-38). In this account, the angel Gabriel appears to Mary and greets her by saying, “Hello, favored one! The Lord is with you!” The angel then explains that Mary will have a child through the Holy Spirit. Mary, showing humility and faith, responds, “I am the Lord’s servant. Let everything happen to me as you have said.”
The Feast of the Annunciation is important because it connects Christmas and Easter. March 25th is exactly nine months before Christmas on December 25th. In some traditions, it is also known as Lady Day.
This feast day highlights Mary’s significant role in Christian belief and underscores her obedience, humility, and faith. Mary is seen as an example of discipleship for all believers.
The Annunciation has been celebrated throughout Christian history with special prayers, hymns, and devotions. It reminds Christians of the encounter between the divine and humanity and emphasizes the impact of Mary’s response on God’s plan for redemption.
More Lives of the Saints Celebrated in March
The feasts mentioned above are not the only ones celebrated in March, but there are still a lot of saints whose feast days are in March, check out Catholic.org to see the list that includes all the other saints celebrated in March.
Lenten Season Begins in March
As mentioned earlier, the Lenten season this year starts on March 5, Ash Wednesday.
We are encouraged to embark on this spiritual journey, not just as individuals but as a family, focusing on fostering a deeper connection with our faith.
Together, we can engage in practices such as fasting, prayer, decluttering, and acts of charity, instilling in our children the importance of self-discipline and compassion.
As we approach Holy Week and Easter, the anticipation of the Lord’s Passion and Resurrection becomes a central theme, and the Lenten traditions of sacrifice and self-examination serve as valuable lessons for families, reinforcing the core values of our Catholic faith.
If you are looking for printables and coloring pages, here are some posts that I wrote previously for the Lenten season for Catholic kids and families:
43 Simple Lenten Activities for Families
Free Lenten Printables for Kids
Free Lenten Printable Coloring Pages for Toddlers
Final Thoughts on Catholic Feast Days in March
I hope that these Catholic feast days in March will help all of us in our journey of living liturgically, as well as in observing the Lenten season more meaningfully. What feast days are you already celebrating at home in March? What else do you want to add? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
BEFORE YOU GO…
These posts may also interest you:
How to Start Living Liturgically at Home with Small Kids
Lenten Decluttering (The Best Time to Get Rid of the Unnecessary Things from Home)
