On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, the Catholic Church marks a significant day in its liturgical calendar, celebrating the Solemnity of the Annunciation, the life and contributions of prominent saints, including Santa Lucía Filippini and San Dimas, the Good Thief.
The Solemnity of the Annunciation is one of the most crucial recognitions in the Christian faith. According to Christian tradition, it commemorates the moment when the archangel Gabriel announced to the Virgin Mary that she would conceive Jesus, the Son of God, by the Holy Spirit. This event, occurring in Nazareth, is celebrated nine months before Christmas, marking the incarnation of Christ, a pivotal moment in the history of salvation.
March 25, 2025, also highlights Santa Lucía Filippini's feast day. Lucía Filippini was an Italian religious figure who laid the foundation of the Institute of Pious Teachers Filippini. Educated by the Benedictine nuns of Santa Lucía and later by the Poor Clares, she devoted her life to serving the community and education. She passed away in 1731 and remains a significant figure in Catholic education.
Moreover, this day commemorates San Dimas, known as the Good Thief, who is the singular saint canonized by Jesus during his crucifixion. Dimas was crucified alongside Jesus, and according to the Gospel of Luke, he defended Christ in his final moments. After admitting his sins and recognizing Jesus' innocence, Dimas famously requested, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom" (reported by multiple biblical texts). Jesus responded, "Today you will be with me in Paradise," thereby sanctifying Dimas in life, a profound testament to mercy and redemption.
The list of saints recognized on March 25, 2025, is extensive. In addition to Santa Lucía Filippini and San Dimas, the day also honors:
- Annunciation to Mary
- Dimas, the Good Thief
- Dula
- Hermelando
- Isaac the Prophet
- Margarita Clitherow
- Madrona
- Nicodemo de Mammola
- Procopio de Sázava
- Quirino de Roma
- Marie-Alphonsine Ghattas
- Beato Everardo de Schaffhausen
- Beato Tomás de Costacciaro
- San Hermelando
- Beato Hilario Januszewski
- Beato Jacobo Bird
- Beata Josafata (Miguelina) Hordáshevska
- Beato Emiliano Kov
Each of these figures played a pivotal role in the Christian faith, often embodying the principles of compassion, service, and sacrifice. For instance, Margarita Clitherow, a martyr from England during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, was noted for her efforts to shelter clergy during a time of persecution. Her courage and dedication to her faith led to her brutal execution, where she chose to suffer a horrific fate rather than betray her religious convictions.
The liturgical importance of March 25 stems not only from these individual saints’ stories but also from a collective heritage that inspires many believers each year. The Roman Martyrology, which catalogues saints and their feast days, serves as a guide for the faithful navigating their spiritual lives. Each saint's life, marked by struggles and triumphs, aims to motivate Christians to pursue a deeper relationship with God.
As believers reflect on this day, they recognize the significance behind the observance of each saint's feast day—an opportunity not only to honor the sacrifices of the saints but also to celebrate the shared faith and community that connects the believers of today with those of the past. Whether through prayers, attending mass, or sharing stories, the festivities surrounding March 25 highlight the enduring traditions of the Catholic Church.
With the remembrance of Santa Lucía Filippini, San Dimas, and numerous other saints, the day encapsulates a rich tapestry of faith, hope, and spiritual camaraderie within the Christian community.
This day serves as a reminder of the Christian call to reflect on the lives of saints who acted courageously in the face of adversity, whose stories continue to resonate with individuals striving to uphold their faith in contemporary society.
As the Catholic Church honors these cherished figures, it invites everyone to draw strength and inspiration from their lives, striving to embody the virtues they exemplified.
