Benedict of Nursia, Father of Western Monasticism

Feast Day Change from March 21 to July 11

The Catholic Church has announced a change in the feast day of Saint Benedict of Nursia, the founder of the Benedictine monastery. Effective immediately, Saint Benedict's feast day will be celebrated on July 11th, instead of the traditional date of March 21st.

Historical Background

Saint Benedict was born in Italy in 480 AD and died in 547 AD. He is widely recognized as the "Father of Western Monasticism" due to his establishment of the Benedictine Rule, which became a foundational text for monastic life in the West.

Reason for Change

The reason for the feast day change is not entirely clear, but it is believed to be related to the liturgical calendar reform of 1969. The General Roman Calendar, which governs Catholic feast days, was revised that year, and the feast of Saint Gregory the Great was moved from July 11th to September 12th. This created a vacancy on July 11th, which was subsequently filled by the feast of Saint Benedict.

The feast of Saint Benedict is celebrated widely in the Catholic Church and beyond. He is often invoked as the patron saint of Europe and is known for his teachings on humility, obedience, and stability. The change in his feast day will undoubtedly be welcomed by his numerous devotees around the world.