The Feast of the Holy Innocents is observed annually on December 28 as a day to honor the children of Israel killed by King Herod in his quest to find baby Jesus.
According to the Bible, Herod was afraid of the prophesied King of Jews and was angry that he hadn’t heard from the Magi who had come to him initially seeking a newborn king. Furious that Jesus had escaped, Herod ordered the killing of all baby boys under the age of two in Bethlehem and the surrounding areas, hoping to kill Jesus.
In ancient Rome, the day was marked by fasting and mourning. However, as time passed by, Holy Innocents day became a festival by itself. Now, the churches observe this day as an occasion to celebrate children and encourage them to be happy and play. In some countries, children get a chance to get their toys blessed during Mass on Feast Day.
