Coronation Day of Pope Benedict XVI, which takes place on April 24 every year, commemorates when the former pope officially became the most influential Catholic figure in Catholicism. Forget Paolo Sorrentino’s fictional tale of a new and younger American pope and any other papal interpretation. When we commemorate a pope’s coronation, we pay tribute to the profound social transformations he brought about, the extraordinary religious fortitude he bestowed upon millions, and his legacy as a significant figure in history whose influence will endure long after his death.
Action Day for Tolerance and Respect between People
Action Day for Tolerance and Respect between People takes place on April 24 every year in Argentina. It is a national day that commemorates and recognizes the attempts by the Ottoman Empire in 1915 to systematically eradicate the Armenian people from their homeland. It is a national observance. However, it is not a public holiday. Rather, as only 33 countries have formerly recognized the actions of the Ottoman Empire, in World War I, as genocide, this day brings clear focus to how the persecution of peoples can willingly go on, as governments’ concerns over political connection rather than human rights supersede their ability to act.
Divine Mercy Sunday
Divine Mercy Sunday is celebrated on the second Sunday of Easter and is a religious observance celebrated mostly among Catholics. This year, it takes place on April 12. It is a significant time for reflection on the Christian faith. As Pope John Paul II stated, “It is a time where we are blessed with divine mercy as it reaches us through the heart of Christ crucified.” Divine Mercy Sunday focuses on the gifts that flowed from Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection — his mercy and love that were so freely given to humanity after such a betrayal. Divine Mercy Sunday concludes the Easter celebrations and welcomes the ultimate gift that Christ gave after his crucifixion.