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The Holy Innocents

The Feast of the Holy Innocents commemorates the massacre of young children by King Herod in his attempt to kill the infant Jesus, observed on December 28 in Western Christianity and December 29 in Eastern Christianity.

Historical Background

The Feast of the Holy Innocents, also known as Childermas, is rooted in the biblical account found in the Gospel of Matthew (2:16-18). After the visit of the Magi, King Herod, fearing the birth of a rival king, ordered the execution of all male children in Bethlehem who were two years old and under. This tragic event is seen as an early act of martyrdom, and the children are honored as the first martyrs of Christianity. The Feast of the Holy Innocents is a significant observance in the Christian liturgical calendar, commemorating the tragic loss of innocent lives and reflecting on the broader themes of sacrifice and hope in the Christian faith.

Significance

The Holy Innocents are recognized as martyrs who died for Christ before they could know him. Their story serves as a poignant reminder of the innocence of children and the harsh realities of the world. The feast also highlights themes of hope and redemption amidst tragedy, as reflected in the biblical prophecy quoted in Matthew, which speaks of Rachel weeping for her children.

Biblical account

In the second chapter of the Gospel According to Matthew, Herod encountered the Magi following the star of Bethlehem and, upon hearing of their quest for the baby "king of the Jews," was frightened by the apparent fulfillment of a messianic prophecy that threatened his rule. He asked them to report back once they had found the child, but the Magi were warned in a dream not return to him after they visited the Holy Family.

Conclusion

The Feast of the Holy Innocents, also known as Childermas, is celebrated in the Anglican Church on 28 December as a religious feast day, the fourth day of Christmastide. The day is marked by various liturgical observances, including special masses and prayers.

In some traditions, it is a day of fasting and mourning, reflecting on the sorrow of the innocent lives lost. Some churches omit both the Gloria and the Alleluia of the mass in honor of the grieving mothers of Bethlehem, unless the feast falls on a Sunday.

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