January 25

Giovanni Morone was born in 1509 into a noble family in Modena, Italy. Elevated to cardinal in 1549, he became a principal figure at the Council of Trent, advocating for church reform and unity. Morone served as papal legate to the Holy Roman Empire and negotiated important treaties between the Papacy and European rulers. Despite facing suspicion during the Reformation era, he was lauded for his moderate stance and diplomatic skill. He died in 1580, remembered as a leading churchman of the Counter-Reformation.

Born in 1905 in Quebec, Maurice Roy was ordained a priest in 1931 and rose through the church hierarchy. He served as Bishop of Trois-Rivières before being appointed Archbishop of Quebec in 1946. Elevated to Cardinal by Pope Pius XII the same year, he became an influential figure at the Second Vatican Council, contributing to key reforms. Known for his diplomatic skills, he represented Canada at international gatherings and fostered interfaith dialogue. Roy was active in social causes, advocating for education and social justice within and beyond the church. He presided over the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, shaping church policy across the country. His leadership guided the Canadian church through periods of change and modernization. He passed away in 1985, leaving a legacy of faith, service, and dialogue.