The Holy Innocents

The Holy Innocents were the young children killed by King Herod. Herod was the ruler of Judea when Jesus was born. The story is told in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 2. The Holy Innocents were likely boys under two years old, living in Bethlehem or nearby.

The Wise Men, or Magi, had come to Jerusalem looking for the newborn King of the Jews. Herod, hearing this, felt threatened. He was afraid this new King would take his throne. He asked the Wise Men to find the child and report back to him. But God warned the Wise Men in a dream not to return to Herod. They went home by another way.

When Herod realized the Wise Men did not come back, he was furious. He ordered all the baby boys in Bethlehem, two years old and under, to be killed. Herod hoped this would include Jesus. But an angel had already warned Joseph in a dream. Joseph took Mary and Jesus to Egypt to keep them safe.

The Holy Innocents are remembered as martyrs for Jesus. They did not know Jesus, but they died because of Him. The Church honors them on December 28, within the Christmas season. This reminds us that suffering was part of Jesus’ story from the start.

The Holy Innocents also remind us of the value of every life, even the smallest and most helpless. Their story is both sad and important. It shows us that Jesus came into a world filled with darkness, but He brought light. The Holy Innocents were part of that light.

King Herod ruled Judea when Jesus was born. He was a powerful king, but he was also very fearful. Herod often felt threatened by others who might take his throne. He did not want anyone to challenge his power. So, when the Wise Men came looking for a “newborn king,” Herod was alarmed. He saw this baby as a rival, even though it was only a rumor.

Bethlehem was a small town near Jerusalem. It was not an important city. Most of the people there were simple workers, like shepherds and farmers. They lived quietly, following the rules of Herod and the Roman Empire. Life was not easy, but it was peaceful. People in Bethlehem did not expect royal visitors, much less a massacre.

Herod’s reaction to the birth of Jesus showed how cruel he could be. He was willing to do anything to protect his rule. He ordered the deaths of all baby boys in Bethlehem, hoping to kill Jesus. Herod was not concerned about innocent lives. He only wanted to secure his power, no matter the cost. This event is called the “Massacre of the Innocents.”

Herod’s rule was marked by fear and violence. He even killed some of his own family members when he felt threatened. The people of Bethlehem knew this. They would have been terrified by his soldiers coming into their town. The murder of their children was not just an act of violence but a deep wound for the community.

The story of the Holy Innocents reminds us of the harsh world Jesus was born into. It was a world of kings and empires, where the powerful often hurt the weak. But it was also the world that God chose to enter through Jesus. This shows us that God was not afraid to come into a world filled with darkness.

In the Church, a martyr is someone who dies for their faith in Jesus. Martyrs give up their lives rather than deny Jesus. Their deaths are considered acts of witness. The word “martyr” comes from a Greek word that means “witness.” It means they show their love for Jesus through their sacrifice.

The Holy Innocents are considered martyrs even though they were infants. They could not speak or make a choice. Yet, they died because Herod wanted to kill Jesus. The Church honors them as martyrs because their deaths were directly connected to Jesus’ coming into the world. They were the first to suffer because of Him. In this way, they are witnesses, even without words.

St. Stephen is called the “protomartyr,” meaning the first adult martyr of the Church. He was stoned to death for preaching about Jesus (Acts 7). St. Stephen was the first to die for the faith after Jesus’ death and resurrection. But the Holy Innocents were the first to die because of Jesus, even before He began His ministry.

The Holy Innocents’ martyrdom shows that even the youngest lives have meaning. They remind us that innocence can be attacked by evil, but it is also honored by God. The Church sees their deaths as part of the greater story of Jesus, who also suffered as an innocent child.

The feast of the Holy Innocents on December 28 recognizes these little martyrs. It invites us to pray for and protect all children, especially the unborn and the vulnerable. Their story is a call to cherish life, no matter how small or weak it may seem.

The Feast of the Holy Innocents is celebrated on December 28. It is part of the Christmas Octave, the eight days of celebration following Christmas Day. During this time, the Church honors key events and people connected to Jesus’ birth. The Holy Innocents’ feast comes just a few days after Christmas, reminding us of the dangers Jesus faced from the start.

The Christmas Octave is both joyful and serious. It begins with the birth of Jesus, bringing light into the world. But it also includes the suffering of the Holy Innocents. Their story adds a somber note to the Christmas season, showing that Jesus’ coming brought hope but also conflict with evil. The Octave’s mix of joy and sorrow reflects the full story of Jesus’ mission.

The Mass for the Feast of the Holy Innocents includes special readings. The first reading is usually from the First Letter of John, focusing on walking in light, not darkness. The Gospel reading is from Matthew 2:13-18, which tells the story of Herod’s order to kill the children in Bethlehem. This passage describes the deep grief of the mothers whose children were taken from them.

The prayers used during this feast focus on both the innocence of the children and God’s care for the weak. The opening prayer asks God to help us “proclaim the innocence of the Holy Innocents.” It also asks that their prayers be a source of strength for the faithful. The prayers remind us that, despite the darkness, Jesus’ birth brings salvation and hope.

The Feast of the Holy Innocents also encourages us to protect all innocent life today. It is a day to pray for children everywhere, especially those who are vulnerable or suffering. The Church invites us to reflect on how we can be a source of light and protection for them.

The Holy Innocents are also honored as patron saints of babies, unborn children, and victims of violence. Because of their innocence and sacrifice, the Church believes they are special protectors of those who cannot defend themselves. Many parents pray to the Holy Innocents for the safety of their children, especially newborns or those who are ill. The Holy Innocents are also seen as patrons for those working to protect life, such as pro-life advocates, healthcare workers, and caregivers for children.

By praying to the Holy Innocents and seeking their intercession, the faithful ask for their help in guarding children from harm and for strength in defending the vulnerable. Their patronage is a reminder that these little martyrs continue to play a special role in heaven, watching over the most helpless on earth.

In some cultures, the feast is marked with traditions that focus on children. In Spain and Latin America, for example, December 28 is also called “Dia de los Santos Inocentes.” It is similar to April Fool’s Day, with jokes and pranks. But the day also has a serious side, with prayers for the protection of children.

Churches may also hold special Masses or processions for the Holy Innocents. These events often include children to emphasize the importance of protecting young lives. The Holy Innocents’ story is a call to be aware of the suffering of children everywhere. Through prayer and devotion, we remember their innocence and seek to protect those who are vulnerable.

The Holy Innocents remind us of the value of every life, no matter how small or weak. Their story shows that even the youngest lives matter to God. It teaches us that we have a duty to protect the innocent, especially children. We are called to be like the Holy Family, who acted quickly to keep Jesus safe.

Today, the Holy Innocents are a symbol of the fight to defend the unborn. Just as they were vulnerable to Herod’s cruelty, many unborn children are vulnerable to harm. Their story urges us to support life from conception to natural death. We can do this through prayer, support for pro-life causes, and helping mothers and families in need.

The Holy Innocents also remind us of the need for courage. Standing up for life can be difficult, but it is necessary. We can honor their memory by speaking out against abortion, neglect, and abuse. This can be done in small ways, like supporting pregnancy centers, fostering adoption, or simply offering kindness to expectant mothers.

In daily life, we can honor the Holy Innocents by showing love and care for all children. This can include protecting them from harm, ensuring they are safe, and providing for their needs. It can also mean creating a world where children are valued and cherished.

The story of the Holy Innocents is a call to defend the helpless, just as Joseph defended Jesus. By living out this call, we honor their memory. We also bring light to the world, the same light that Jesus brought by His birth.

Word on Fire: The Struggle Against Darkness

Bishop Robert Barron reflects on the Gospel’s account of Herod’s massacre of the innocents, drawing a parallel to Pharaoh’s killing of Hebrew boys during Moses’ time. From the beginning of Jesus’ life, he faced opposition, as Herod sought to eliminate him out of fear, forcing the Holy Family into exile. This early conflict foreshadowed the growing resistance Jesus would encounter during his public ministry—from verbal attacks to threats and ultimately his crucifixion.

Peter’s speech after Pentecost explains the deeper meaning of this opposition: the world’s brokenness rejecting the “Holy and Righteous One.” Despite this rejection and violence, Jesus’ resurrection reveals God’s power to bring life and redemption. The story of the innocents and Jesus’ struggle challenges us to confront the dysfunction around us and trust in the ultimate victory of goodness and truth.

USCCB Reflection: Sacrifice and the Affirmation of Christmas

Deacon Arthur Miller reflects on the Feast of the Holy Innocents, recalling the tragic story of the children killed by King Herod out of fear of losing his power. This act of cruelty reminds us of the many martyrs throughout history who gave their lives for their faith. He challenges us to consider what we are willing to sacrifice for the glory of God and how we can die to things like greed, jealousy, or racism to make space for Christ’s life within us.

Deacon Miller connects the Christmas season to an affirmation of virtues like kindness, generosity, and joy. He encourages us to continue the work of Christmas by serving others—feeding the hungry, comforting the lonely, and seeking forgiveness. By living out these values, we honor the memory of the Holy Innocents and bring Christ’s light into the world, ensuring their sacrifice was not in vain.

Order of Preachers: Hope, With Eyes Wide Open

Fr. Jean Jacques Pérennès reflects on the Feast of the Holy Innocents, where Herod’s brutal massacre of children reveals the horrifying extent of human violence. This tragic story reminds us that even today, the innocent suffer as power-hungry leaders exploit and destroy lives, from Gaza to Ukraine. The loss of a child is a uniquely painful wound, and children, cherished by God, are sacred symbols of hope and the future.

Amid this tragedy, the Christmas message offers hope that is grounded in reality, not dreams. The incarnation of Jesus, God made human, shows us a God who is close, vulnerable, and willing to share in human suffering. This truth calls us to live with open eyes, to see the world’s pain, and to act with compassion. At the same time, it assures us that God is near, offering love and comfort even in the darkest moments of history.

Dynamic Catholic: God Speaks to You

Matthew Kelly reflects on the Gospel account of Herod’s massacre of innocent children, highlighting Herod’s desperate, monstrous actions to hold onto power by ordering the deaths of male children in Bethlehem. This act of fear and control contrasts with Joseph’s faith and obedience. When an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream, instructing him to flee with Mary and Jesus to Egypt, Joseph listened and acted, trusting the message. Kelly notes how God spoke clearly to Joseph, even in extraordinary ways like a dream, because Joseph was open to hearing Him.

Kelly emphasizes that God still speaks to us in many ways—through thoughts, Scripture, and even extraordinary experiences—but we often block His voice. He encourages us to test what we believe is God’s voice against Scripture and the Church’s teachings while remaining attentive and prayerful. By opening ourselves to listening, we can better discern God’s guidance in our lives.

Championing Life and True Freedom

Parents do not have rights over their children, only duties, with the main duty being to act in their best interests. Jesus welcomed children and taught that we must be like them to enter God’s kingdom. No one has the right to decide who should live or die; the right to life is fundamental to every human.

We should not choose to end life to avoid suffering but find meaning in suffering. Society should care for all, including the vulnerable. True freedom is found in following Christ and working for the dignity of all human life.

Reflection: Innocence in a World of Darkness

The story of the Holy Innocents is both sad and meaningful. These were young children who lost their lives because of Herod’s fear and anger. They did not choose to be martyrs, but their deaths were connected to Jesus from the very start. Their story reminds us that evil and suffering have always been part of the human experience, even at the birth of Jesus.

The Holy Innocents show us the cost of following Jesus. He came as a light in darkness, but not everyone welcomed that light. The babies of Bethlehem paid a great price, even though they were unaware of it. They show us that sometimes, following Jesus can bring conflict with the world. Their story invites us to think about what sacrifices we might be called to make as we try to follow Jesus.

The Holy Innocents also teach us the value of innocence. Jesus said that we must become like children to enter the kingdom of God. This doesn’t mean being childish, but having a heart that is open, trusting, and free from malice. The Holy Innocents were exactly this. They did not have time to sin or turn away from God. Their short lives show us what it means to be pure in heart.

We can honor the Holy Innocents by defending those who cannot protect themselves. This includes not only the unborn but also children who suffer neglect, abuse, or hunger. The Holy Innocents remind us that every life is precious, no matter how small or weak. We are called to be a voice for the voiceless, just as Jesus was.

Reflection Questions

• What does the story of the Holy Innocents teach you about the cost of following Jesus?
• How can you become more “childlike” in your faith?
• What are some ways you can protect and care for the innocent in your community?